{"id":37198,"date":"2024-04-09T05:10:25","date_gmt":"2024-04-09T05:10:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/?p=37198"},"modified":"2024-04-09T05:10:26","modified_gmt":"2024-04-09T05:10:26","slug":"right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/","title":{"rendered":"Right against adverse effects of climate change part of rights to life, equality \u2013 SC &#8211; UPSC"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/upsc-current-affairs?utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Banner&amp;utm_campaign=Current+Affairs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/19.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42406\" srcset=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/19.png 1280w, https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/19-1170x274.png 1170w, https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/19-585x137.png 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In a landmark decision, the Indian Supreme Court recognized the right to a clean environment free from climate change as an extension of the fundamental rights to life and equality. This means the government has a legal duty to protect citizens from climate harm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tag: GS- 2 &#8211; Directive principles of state policy -SC,\u00a0GS-1 &#8211; Geography &#8211; physical geography- climate change\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_73 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69d2f42de7297\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-cssicon\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69d2f42de7297\"  \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Context\" title=\"Context:&nbsp;&nbsp;\">Context:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Background_of_the_case\" title=\"Background of the case:&nbsp;&nbsp;\">Background of the case:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Protection_of_GIB_and_April_2021_verdict_of_SC\" title=\"Protection of GIB and April 2021 verdict of SC:&nbsp;&nbsp;\">Protection of GIB and April 2021 verdict of SC:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Governments_Request_for_Amendment\" title=\"Government&#8217;s Request for Amendment:&nbsp;\">Government&#8217;s Request for Amendment:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Modification_of_the_Order\" title=\"Modification of the Order:&nbsp;\">Modification of the Order:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Key_highlights_of_the_judgement\" title=\"Key highlights of the judgement:&nbsp;&nbsp;\">Key highlights of the judgement:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Pointed_out_technical_challenges_in_implementing_the_April_2021_order\" title=\"Pointed out technical challenges in implementing the April 2021 order&nbsp;\">Pointed out technical challenges in implementing the April 2021 order&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Formed_a_nine-member_committee_of_experts\" title=\"Formed a nine-member committee of experts:\u00a0\">Formed a nine-member committee of experts:\u00a0<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Pointed_out_Indias_commitment_towards_renewable_energy\" title=\"Pointed out India\u2019s commitment towards renewable energy:&nbsp;\">Pointed out India\u2019s commitment towards renewable energy:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Highlighted_the_benefits_of_promotion_of_renewable_energy\" title=\"Highlighted the benefits of promotion of renewable energy:&nbsp;&nbsp;\">Highlighted the benefits of promotion of renewable energy:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#India_urgently_needs_to_shift_to_solar_power_due_to_three_impending_issues\" title=\"India urgently needs to shift to solar power due to three impending issues:&nbsp;\">India urgently needs to shift to solar power due to three impending issues:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Climate_change_through_the_lens_rights\" title=\"Climate change through the lens rights:&nbsp;\">Climate change through the lens rights:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Highlighted_the_existing_constitutional_provisions_and_associated_challenges\" title=\"Highlighted the existing constitutional provisions and associated challenges:&nbsp;\">Highlighted the existing constitutional provisions and associated challenges:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Factors_Affecting_Climate_Change\" title=\"Factors Affecting Climate Change:&nbsp;\">Factors Affecting Climate Change:&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Natural_Factors\" title=\"Natural Factors:&nbsp;\">Natural Factors:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Anthropogenic_Factors\" title=\"Anthropogenic Factors:&nbsp;\">Anthropogenic Factors:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Expanded_the_scope_of_fundamental_rights_to_include_right_against_adverse_effects_of_climate_change\" title=\"Expanded the scope of fundamental rights to include right against adverse effects of climate change:&nbsp;\">Expanded the scope of fundamental rights to include right against adverse effects of climate change:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Indias_Response_to_Climate_Change\" title=\"India\u2019s Response to Climate Change:&nbsp;\">India\u2019s Response to Climate Change:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#FAQs_on_Right_Against_Adverse_Effects_of_Climate_Change\" title=\"FAQs on Right Against Adverse Effects of Climate Change\">FAQs on Right Against Adverse Effects of Climate Change<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#In_case_you_still_have_your_doubts_contact_us_on_9811333901\" title=\"In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.&nbsp;\">In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/right-against-adverse-effects-of-climate-change-part-of-rights-to-life-equality-sc-upsc\/#Visit_our_YouTube_Channel_%E2%80%93_here\" title=\"Visit our YouTube Channel &#8211;&nbsp;here\">Visit our YouTube Channel &#8211;&nbsp;here<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Context\"><\/span><strong>Context:&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Supreme Court has expanded the scope of <strong>Articles 14 and 21 to include the right against the adverse effects of climate change.<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Background_of_the_case\"><\/span><strong>Background of the case:&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The recent judgement came on a petition by <strong>wildlife activists to protect the Great Indian Bustard (GIB), a critically endangered bird found only in Rajasthan and Gujarat.<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Protection_of_GIB_and_April_2021_verdict_of_SC\"><\/span><strong>Protection of GIB and April 2021 verdict of SC:&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>In <strong>April 2021, the Supreme Court<\/strong> issued an order imposing restrictions on the establishment of overhead transmission lines within an area encompassing approximately <strong>99,000 square kilometres.<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li><li>The court proposed the conversion of existing overhead low and high voltage lines into underground power lines.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Governments_Request_for_Amendment\"><\/span><strong>Government&#8217;s Request for Amendment:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Subsequently, the <strong>Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, Ministry of Power, and Ministry of New and Renewable Energ<\/strong>y approached the Supreme Court seeking a modification of its directives.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>The government argued that adhering to the order would hinder <strong>India&#8217;s efforts to fulfil its global commitments to reduce carbon emissions<\/strong>, as many major solar and wind energy installations are located in the affected area.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Modification_of_the_Order\"><\/span><strong>Modification of the Order:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>In March 2024, the Supreme Court revisited its earlier ruling and acknowledged the practical obstacles associated with its implementation.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>These challenges included technical complexities, land acquisition issues, and high costs. In light of these considerations, the court modified its <strong>April 2021 order.&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li><li>While doing so, the court emphasised the importance of <strong>climate change jurisprudence and underscored the need to balance the conservation of the GIB with promoting renewable energy and environmental preservation as a whole.<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_highlights_of_the_judgement\"><\/span><strong>Key highlights of the judgement:&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pointed_out_technical_challenges_in_implementing_the_April_2021_order\"><\/span><strong>Pointed out technical challenges in implementing the April 2021 order<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Supreme Court highlighted technical challenges associated with implementing the <strong>April 2021 order.&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li><li>It noted that underground power transmission cables are currently available only in <strong>400 KV with lengths of 250 meters.&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li><li>This could result in more joints, leading to leaks, and transmission loss in such cables is about five times higher as they don\u2019t efficiently transmit AC power.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>Additionally, the <strong>Electricity Act does not contemplate the acquisition of land<\/strong> for laying underground cables, as overhead transmission lines require only the right of way.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Formed_a_nine-member_committee_of_experts\"><\/span><strong>Formed a nine-member committee of experts:\u00a0<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Supreme Court established a <strong>nine-member committee<\/strong> of experts tasked with assessing the feasibility of undergrounding power lines in specific areas. It directed the committee to submit a <strong>report by July 31, 2024.<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pointed_out_Indias_commitment_towards_renewable_energy\"><\/span><strong>Pointed out India\u2019s commitment towards renewable energy:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The court underscored India&#8217;s commitment to renewable energy, citing its goal to achieve an installed renewable energy capacity (excluding large hydro) of <strong>175 GW by 2022, with a future goal of 450 GW installed capacity by 2030.&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li><li>It emphasised that this commitment signifies the country\u2019s dedication to clean energy adoption, framing it not only as a strategic energy goal but also as a fundamental necessity for environmental preservation.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Highlighted_the_benefits_of_promotion_of_renewable_energy\"><\/span><strong>Highlighted the benefits of promotion of renewable energy:&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Supreme Court emphasised the socio-economic benefits of promoting <strong>renewable energy sources<\/strong><strong>, <\/strong>noting that it plays a crucial role in promoting social equity by ensuring access to clean and affordable energy for all segments of society, especially in<strong> rural and underserved areas.&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li><li>It further highlighted that this contributes to poverty alleviation, enhances quality of life, and fosters inclusive growth and development across the nation.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"India_urgently_needs_to_shift_to_solar_power_due_to_three_impending_issues\"><\/span><strong>India urgently needs to shift to solar power due to three impending issues:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The court pointed out three impending issues necessitating India&#8217;s shift to <strong>solar power.<\/strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>Firstly, it noted that India is expected to<strong> account for 25% of global energy demand<\/strong> growth over the next two decades, emphasising the need for enhanced energy security and self-sufficiency while mitigating environmental impacts.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>Secondly, it highlighted the need to combat rampant <strong>air pollution caused by fossil fuels by transitioning to cleaner energy sources like solar.&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li><li>Lastly, it emphasised the importance of diversifying energy sources in response to declining groundwater levels and decreasing annual rainfall, noting that solar power <strong>does not strain groundwater supplies like coal does.<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Climate_change_through_the_lens_rights\"><\/span><strong>Climate change through the lens rights:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Supreme Court highlighted the intersection between climate change and human rights, emphasising the imperative for states to address climate impacts through the lens of rights.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>It noted that the right to a<strong> healthy and clean environment is part of the duty of care, compelling states <\/strong>to take effective<strong> measures to mitigate climate change and ensure<\/strong> that all individuals have the necessary capacity to adapt to the climate crisis&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Highlighted_the_existing_constitutional_provisions_and_associated_challenges\"><\/span><strong>Highlighted the existing constitutional provisions and associated challenges:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Article 48A of the Constitution<\/strong> provides that the State shall endeavour to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wildlife of the country.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Clause (g) of Article 51A<\/strong> stipulates that it shall be the duty of every citizen of India to protect and improve the natural environment including <strong>forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife<\/strong>, and to have compassion for living creatures.\u00a0<\/li><li>However, these are not justiciable provisions, they are mere indications that the Constitution recognises the importance of the natural world.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Factors_Affecting_Climate_Change\"><\/span><strong>Factors Affecting Climate Change:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Natural_Factors\"><\/span><strong>Natural Factors:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Continental Drift: <\/strong>Landmass movements over millions of years alter physical features and affect climate by changing ocean currents and wind patterns.&nbsp;<\/li><li><strong>Volcanism:<\/strong> Eruptions emit gases and dust particles, partially blocking sunlight and cooling weather.&nbsp;<\/li><li><strong>Changes in Earth\u2019s Orbit:<\/strong> Variations in orbit affect seasonal sunlight distribution, leading to Milankovitch cycles and impacting climate.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Anthropogenic_Factors\"><\/span><strong>Anthropogenic Factors:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Greenhouse Gases:<\/strong> Human-caused increase in global surface temperature due to gases absorbing heat radiation.&nbsp;<\/li><li><strong>Atmospheric Aerosols<\/strong>: Particles scatter and absorb solar and infrared radiation, influencing temperature and cloud formation.&nbsp;<\/li><li><strong>Shift in Land-Use Pattern: <\/strong>Deforestation and land conversion for agriculture or industry alter energy absorption and moisture evaporation, affecting albedo and temperature.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Expanded_the_scope_of_fundamental_rights_to_include_right_against_adverse_effects_of_climate_change\"><\/span><strong>Expanded the scope of fundamental rights to include right against adverse effects of climate change:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Article 21 recognises <\/strong>the right to <strong>life and personal liberty while Article 14<\/strong> indicates that all persons shall have equality before law and the equal protection of laws.\u00a0<\/li><li>These Articles are <strong>important sources of the right to a clean environment and the right against the adverse effects of climate change<\/strong>.\u00a0<\/li><li>Without a clean environment which is stable and non impacted by the vagaries of climate change, the right to life is not fully realised.\u00a0<\/li><li>The right to health <strong>(which is a part of the right to life under Article 21) <\/strong>is impacted due to factors such as air pollution, shifts in vector-borne diseases, rising temperatures, droughts, etc.\u00a0<\/li><li>The inability of underserved communities to adapt to climate change or cope with its effects<strong> violates the right to life (Article 21) as well as the right to equality (Article 14).<\/strong>\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Indias_Response_to_Climate_Change\"><\/span><strong>India\u2019s Response to Climate Change:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC):<\/strong> Outlines policies and programs for climate mitigation and adaptation, including eight core national missions with strong adaptation imperatives.&nbsp;<\/li><li><strong>National Clean Energy Fund (NCEF): <\/strong>Established in 2010 to finance and promote clean energy initiatives and research through a cess on coal production, subsequently increased in 2014.&nbsp;<\/li><li><strong>Paris Agreement Commitments:<\/strong> India aims to reduce greenhouse gas emission intensity by 33-35% below 2005 levels by 2030, achieve 40% power capacity from non-fossil fuel sources, and create additional carbon sinks through forest cover expansion.&nbsp;<\/li><li><strong>International Solar Alliance (ISA): <\/strong>Launched in 2015 at the UN Climate Change Conference to promote solar energy adoption, led by India and France.&nbsp;<\/li><li><strong>Bharat Stage (BS) Emission Norms<\/strong>: Introduced to address vehicle emissions, with successive norms implemented since 2000, culminating in the leapfrog to BS-VI norms in 2016 to align with global best practices.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><strong>(<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/india\/agra-boy-apprehended-for-raping-minor-9257607\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>IE<\/strong><\/a><strong>) (<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/national\/right-against-climate-change-a-distinct-fundamental-and-human-right-sc-judgment\/article68041693.ece#:~:text=As%20the%20havoc%20caused%20by,judgment%20released%20on%20April%206\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>TH<\/strong><\/a><strong>)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs_on_Right_Against_Adverse_Effects_of_Climate_Change\"><\/span>FAQs on Right Against Adverse Effects of Climate Change<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>What did the Supreme Court rule?<\/strong><\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>The Supreme Court recognized the right against adverse effects of climate change as part of the fundamental rights to life (Article 21) and equality (Article 14) enshrined in the Indian Constitution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\" start=\"2\"><li><strong>Why is this ruling significant?<\/strong><\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>This ruling strengthens the legal basis for taking action against climate change. It allows individuals and communities to hold the government accountable for protecting them from its harmful consequences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\" start=\"3\"><li><strong>How does climate change affect the right to life and equality?<\/strong><\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Climate change disrupts weather patterns, leading to extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and resource scarcity. These factors threaten access to clean water, food security, and basic necessities, impacting everyone&#8217;s right to life. Additionally, the effects of climate change are often felt more severely by marginalized communities, violating the principle of equality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\" start=\"4\"><li><strong>What can be done based on this ruling?<\/strong><\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Citizens can use this right to demand stronger environmental policies, hold polluters accountable, and seek compensation for damages caused by climate change. The government has a legal duty to implement measures that protect citizens from its adverse effects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\" start=\"5\"><li><strong>Does this right exist outside of India?<\/strong><\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Several countries have recognized the right to a healthy environment, which can encompass protection from climate change. However, the Indian Supreme Court&#8217;s ruling explicitly linking it to fundamental rights is a unique and progressive step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/upsc\/upsc-essay?utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Banner&amp;utm_campaign=Essay\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/UPSC-Essay-Course-1280\u00d7300-1-3.svg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42688 lazyload\" width=\"781\" height=\"182\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 781px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 781\/182;\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_case_you_still_have_your_doubts_contact_us_on_9811333901\"><\/span><strong>In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For UPSC Prelims Resources,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/upsc-cse-prelims-resource-centre\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Click here<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For Daily Updates and Study Material:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Join our Telegram Channel &#8211;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/t.me\/WithEdukemy4IAS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Edukemy for IAS<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>1. Learn through Videos &#8211;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/3vOD8sU\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a><\/li><li>2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs &#8211;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/3Q9z2nF\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a><\/li><li>3. Daily Newsletter &#8211; Get all your Current Affairs Covered &#8211;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/3bE2y5J\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a><\/li><li>4. Mains Answer Writing Practice &#8211;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/3mZuVxl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Visit_our_YouTube_Channel_%E2%80%93_here\"><\/span>Visit our YouTube Channel &#8211;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@EduKemyforIAS\">here<\/a><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In a landmark decision, the Indian Supreme Court recognized the right to a clean environment free from climate change as an extension of the fundamental rights to life and equality.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":17,"featured_media":37199,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_eb_attr":"","om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[265],"tags":[674,160,161,232,140],"class_list":["post-37198","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-current-affairs","tag-climate-change","tag-daily-current-affairs","tag-daily-current-affairs-upsc","tag-upsc","tag-upsc_preparation_strategy"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37198","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/17"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=37198"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37198\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":37200,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37198\/revisions\/37200"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/37199"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=37198"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=37198"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=37198"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}