BRICS carbon debt debate sets stage for COP31 climate talks

With a month to go for COP31, climate experts have highlighted the concept of ‘carbon debt’ to argue that developed nations historically emitted far more greenhouse gases and must bear greater responsibility for the energy transition. The discussion follows the BRICS New Delhi declaration, which asserts that fossil fuels must remain part of developing countries’ energy mix while promoting just and orderly transitions.

Pallavi Das of CEEW noted that from 1890 to 2009, the US emitted about 400 gigatons of CO2, the EU 348 gigatons, and China 220 gigatons, against India’s 53 gigatons. By 2019, India’s total historical emissions were only 11% of the US figure. Former environment secretary CK Mishra said the Paris Agreement has become one-sided, with developing nations carrying the burden while developed countries have not delivered promised finance and technology.

Shailly Kedia of TERI said carbon debt should not be a license for unlimited fossil fuel use, but the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and national circumstances will remain central at COP31, especially in talks on climate finance and adaptation.