There has been a growing call from the developed countries to force developing countries like India to reduce their emission levels. Kyoto protocol, although not signed by the United States, calls for developed countries to become more energy efficient in the coming years. Countries like France have taken a lead over others in introducing policies, frameworks, and support infrastructure to become energy efficient in buildings. France, by the way, has also introduced a novel bicycle renting system in Paris and is now looking to replicate it across major cities across the country. They are blaming that India remains a mute spectator to the global warming scenario while hiding behind its inability to fight the massive poverty problem. Perhaps, India's resistance to mandatory emissions norms is just. Recent World Bank study reveals that India cannot fight the climate change problem without compromising heavily on its fight against poverty.

India's per capita emission levels are twenty times lower than that of the United States. Yet, its hunger for energy hasn't been fed at all. India's massive push for rural electrification will release over 3 times the current emissions into the atmosphere. Over 50% of village homes, an unofficial estimate put it, still live darkness every night. However, if they implement carbon reduction and energy efficiency schemes it could perhaps a significant portion of the increase.

Will the next government muster enough moral strength to voluntarily reduce emissions?

When we don't know how to live, we will be ruled by someone who doesn't know how to rule, I have heard someone say this. Intriguing thought, isn't it?

--
I Am New,
Krish Murali Eswar.
Picture Courtesy: (NZ) Dave