Sustainable Development Goal 12 (SDG 12) is a pivotal component of the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. At its core, SDG 12 underscores the pressing need for sustainable consumption and production patterns to ensure that economic growth is harmonized with environmental preservation. In this article, we will explore SDG 12, examine India's current stance, its plans, programs, and schemes aimed at achieving this goal, and delve into critical statistics that illustrate the nation's progress.
Understanding SDG 12
SDG 12 calls for responsible management of resources, waste reduction, and sustainable lifestyles. It seeks to balance the imperative of eradicating poverty with the conservation of natural resources required for sustainable development.
India's Position and Commitment
India faces a unique challenge. As it seeks to uplift millions from poverty, it must also protect its environment. In 2015, India committed to a significant reduction in the emissions intensity of its GDP. By 2020, it aimed to reduce emissions intensity by 20-25% compared to 2005 levels, with a more ambitious target of 33-35% by 2030. This target was further elevated during the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP26) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held in Glasgow, with a new aim of reducing emissions by 45% by 2030, relative to 2005 levels.
Key Statistics
Fossil Fuel Consumption (2018-19): India averaged 157.3 kg of fossil fuel per capita, with Goa having the highest consumption at 547 kg per capita, and Bihar the lowest at 51 kg per capita.
Use of Nitrogenous Fertilizer (2018-19): India exceeded the ideal nitrogenous fertilizer use in the NPK mix by 7.39%, impacting sustainable farming practices.
Hazardous Waste Generation (2018): India generated 8.09 metric tonnes of hazardous waste per 1,000 population, with Gujarat leading at 50.12 metric tonnes per 1,000 population.
Hazardous Waste Recycling/Utilization (2018): Of the 10.7 million metric tonnes of hazardous waste generated, 4.8 million metric tonnes were recycled/utilized, with varying rates across regions.
Plastic Waste Generation (2018-19): India produced an average of 2.5 tonnes of plastic waste per 1,000 population, with Goa generating the highest and some union territories contributing significantly.
Biomedical Waste Treatment (2018): India treated 87% of its 614 tonnes of daily biomedical waste, but several regions fell short of adequate treatment levels.
Grid Interactive Bio-power (Nov 2020): India had an installed capacity of 7.62 MW of grid interactive bio-power per 10 lakh population, with Karnataka leading, while Maharashtra led the nation with 2.6 GW of capacity.
India's Plans, Programs, and Schemes
1. Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission): Launched in 2014, this program focuses on improving sanitation and cleanliness across the country, which has a direct impact on waste reduction and sustainable consumption.
2. Plastic Waste Management Rules: India introduced stringent regulations to manage plastic waste, including a ban on single-use plastics in some regions and extended producer responsibility.
3. E-Waste Management Rules: These rules lay out guidelines for the proper management and disposal of electronic waste, aiming to minimize the environmental impact of electronic products.
4. National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA): While not solely focused on SDG 12, this mission promotes sustainable agricultural practices, contributing to sustainable production patterns and reduced resource consumption.
5. Make in India: This initiative aims to boost manufacturing while emphasizing eco-friendly production and sustainable resource utilization.
6. Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT): Focusing on urban development, AMRUT aims to ensure basic services, infrastructure, and sanitation in cities, contributing to sustainable urbanization.
Challenges and Future Prospects
India's journey towards SDG 12 is not without challenges. Sustainable supply chains, effective solid waste management, reduced food wastage, and efficient resource use in agriculture are areas that require concerted efforts. Managing hazardous waste and encouraging recycling are also vital.
Conclusion
India's commitment to SDG 12 is evident through its comprehensive plans, programs, and schemes aimed at sustainable consumption and production. However, challenges remain, and continuous innovation and dedicated efforts are essential to achieving this goal by 2030. India's unique position as a developing nation with a burgeoning population makes its pursuit of SDG 12 all the more critical for global sustainability.
The data presented is based on the reports provided and may have undergone changes since the time of their publication.
Source: The Global Goals | SDG India Index(2019-20) | SDG India Index(2020-21) | PIB
Note for UPSC Aspirants: For UPSC aspirants interested in exploring further, here are some keywords to guide your research: Sustainable Development Goals, Smart Cities, AMRUT, FAME, Renewable Energy, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Circular Economy, Green Building, Waste Management.
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