👉 🚨 COP29 Outcomes Explained: Global Action on Climate Change or Just Promises? | UPSC–MPPSC–SSC–Banking Special

Climate Change is no longer just an environmental issue; it has become a multi-dimensional crisis linked to economy, politics, health, agriculture, energy security, and global stability. In this context, COP29 (Conference of Parties-29) is being counted among the world's most significant Climate Change Summits.

🔎 Why in News?

At COP29, both global consensus and disagreements emerged on issues such as Climate Finance, Net Zero Targets, Loss and Damage Fund, and the responsibilities and rights of Developing Countries. Questions on COP Summits and the Paris Agreement are frequently asked in competitive exams.

🌍 Background: COP and UNFCCC

COP (Conference of Parties) is the annual conference of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Establishment of UNFCCC: 1992, Rio Earth Summit
First COP: 1995, Berlin
Kyoto Protocol (1997): Emission cuts for developed countries
Paris Agreement (2015): Limiting temperature rise to well below 2°C and pursuing 1.5°C

🌡️ Major Causes of Climate Change

        1. Human-Induced Causes (Most Important)
        Excessive use of fossil fuels (Coal, Oil, Gas)
Industrialization and Urbanization
Deforestation and Methane emissions from agriculture
CO2 emissions from the transport sector

        2. Natural Causes
        Volcanic activities
Changes in solar energy

    

📊 COP29 Outcomes (2025 Updates)

1. Climate Finance – The Biggest Issue

Demand for $100 Billion+ annual aid from developed countries. Consensus reached on formally strengthening the Loss and Damage Fund, though clear legal obligations remain vague.

2. Net Zero Commitments

Most developed countries reiterated their commitment to Net Zero by 2050. Developing countries requested flexibility in timelines.

3. Focus on Renewable Energy

Global cooperation on Solar, Wind, and Green Hydrogen. Appeals to gradually reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

4. Adaptation vs. Mitigation

COP29 acknowledged that reducing emissions (Mitigation) alone is not enough; equal focus on Climate Adaptation is essential.

🇮🇳 India’s Stand at COP29

India adopted a practical, balanced, and just approach. Key arguments included:

The right of developing nations to develop.
India's low share in per capita emissions.
Need for transparency and accountability in Climate Finance.
Target: 50% electricity from non-fossil sources by 2030 and Net Zero by 2070.

📦 Exam-Oriented Facts Box

• COP29: 29th UNFCCC Conference
• Paris Agreement: 2015
• CBDR Principle: Common But Differentiated Responsibilities
• India Net Zero Target: 2070
• UNFCCC: 1992 Rio Earth Summit