The recent headlines reveal India’s noteworthy joining of the High Ambition Coalition (HAC) for Nature and People. Notably, India becomes the first country among BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) nations to undertake this initiative.
About High Ambition Coalition (HAC)
The High Ambition Coalition is an intergovernmental group that was initiated in 2019 by three countries – Costa Rica, France, and Britain. This coalition aims to arrest the disturbing speed of species loss, and it focuses on safeguarding critical ecosystems that lay foundations for our economic security. The responsibility for co-chairing this initiative are in the hands of Costa Rica and France, while the Ocean co-chair position is held by the United Kingdom.
Aim of HAC
The HAC holds the noble agenda of encouraging an international accord to secure at least 30% of the world’s terrestrial and marine areas by the year 2030, often referred to as the Global 30×30 target. Moreover, the coalition seeks to advocate for sustainable planet management with no net loss of natural habitats. Its vision extends to supporting a circular economy, aiming for an equitable distribution of benefits derived from nature.
Member Countries of HAC
With more than 70 member countries, the HAC represents a diverse geographical mix of nations from around the globe. Various countries from the northern and southern hemispheres, including European, Latin American, African, and Asian nations, take part in the member discussions of the coalition.
Related Global Initiatives
Several significant global initiatives are related to the HAC’s objectives. These include the United Nations Climate Change Conference, the Conference of the Parties 26 (COP 26), provisions for Climate Financing, the principle of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR), the International Solar Alliance, and the Coalition of Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. Such initiatives further strengthen and support the cause that HAC stands for.
India’s Stand
On the Indian front, various similar initiatives and programs have been undertaken to echo the objectives of HAC. These initiatives include the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), the implementation of Bharat Stage-VI (BS-VI) emission norms, the UJALA scheme, and the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). These programs show a firm commitment by India towards creating a sustainable and eco-friendly future, aligning with the principles of the HAC.
The joining of HAC by India is indeed a commendable move towards ensuring a safer environment, not only for its citizens but also for the entire planet. It paves the way for other countries to follow suit in promoting environmental sustainability while securing economic stability.
Source: PIB
