03-Jan-2025

4th Biennial Update Report (BUR-4)

Environment & Ecology

Why in News? 

On December 30, 2024, India presented its 4th Biennial Update Report (BUR-4) to the UNFCCC, detailing the 2020 National Greenhouse Gas (GHG) inventory alongside updates on national circumstances and mitigation initiatives. 

Key Highlights of BUR-4 Report 

  • India submitted its 4th Biennial Update Report to the UNFCCC on December 30, 2024, highlighting significant progress in climate action. 
  • GHG emissions reduced by 7.93% in 2020 compared to 2019. 
  • Forest and tree cover sequestered 522 million tonnes of CO2, reducing emissions by 22%. 
  • Emission intensity of GDP dropped by 36% between 2005 and 2020. 
  • By 2024, 46.52% of electricity capacity came from non-fossil sources, showcasing India's commitment to sustainability. 

 

UNFCCC: Key Points 

  1. Established: Adopted in 1992 at the Rio Earth Summit. 
  2. Objective: Stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations to limit global warming. 
  3. Headquarters: Bonn, Germany. 
  4. Principles 
  1. Equity and Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR). 
  2. Developed nations lead in climate action. 

5. Membership: Includes 198 parties, almost universal participation. 

6. Key Agreements 

a. Kyoto Protocol (1997): Binding emission reduction targets. 

b. Paris Agreement (2015): Global commitment to limit warming to 1.5°C. 

7. Meetings: Annual Conferences of Parties (COP) to review progress and set targets.