Description

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Context:

A group of governments and civil society organisations believe so and are pushing the idea of a fossil fuel non-proliferation treaty (FF-NPT).

About Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty (FF-NPT)

Category	Details
About	Conceptualized in 2016 and launched in 2019, the FF-NPT proposes making it legally binding for nations to end fossil fuel extraction, phase out existing production, and ensure a just transition to renewable energy.
Objective	Inspired by international treaties regulating nuclear weapons, the initiative aims to address the climate crisis by curbing fossil fuel production and ensuring equitable global energy access.
Origins and Evolution	Conceived around the time of the Paris Agreement, FF-NPT has received endorsements from figures like former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon, indigenous communities, and small island states.
Recent Developments	At COP29 in Baku, 10 more countries joined FF-NPT discussions (identities undisclosed). Endorsed by 13 Small Island Developing States, such as Vanuatu and Tuvalu, and major coal-producing nations like Colombia.
Financial Institutions' Support	The initiative has received backing from 25 members of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values, marking its first major support from the financial sector.

Significance of the FF-NPT:

Need	Significance
The proponents of FF-NPT argue that the Paris Agreement fails to directly address fossil fuel production.	The proposed treaty will support the work of the Paris Agreement by contributing to the implementation of key climate targets.
Tzeporah Berman, chair of FF-NPT, highlighted that fossil fuel emissions in 2024 are projected to be 8% higher than in 2015.	It will aid in the realization of the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG), establishing a new financial target for developing countries.
2024 is likely to be the hottest year on record, with fossil fuel production incompatible with limiting global warming to 1.5°C.	It will complement Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and Just Transition Work Programmes for a sustainable global transition.

Challenges to FF-NPT Implementation

Policy incoherence: In regions like ASEAN, policy incoherence can lead to inefficiencies and contradictions that undermine the transition to a sustainable energy future.

Fossil fuel dependence: Countries like India and Indonesia heavily depend on fossil fuels, and balancing development needs with climate commitments is complex.

Financial barriers: Developing countries need substantial climate finance to phase out fossil fuels and adapt to climate impacts.

Scope: The treaty's scope must be defined, including which activities and fossil fuels are included and excluded. A broad scope could cover all fossil fuels, while a narrow scope could be more limited.

India's Potential on the FF-NPT

India’s participation in FF-NPT is vital due to its reliance on fossil fuels. A just transition framework would enable India to balance energy needs with renewable energy adoption, offering financial and technical support to achieve a sustainable future. This aligns with principles of justice and equity, facilitating a fair and inclusive transition.

Source:

INDIAN EXPRESS

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.Evaluate India's potential role in advancing the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty (FF-NPT). Discuss the challenges and opportunities for India in balancing its developmental priorities with global climate commitments. (150 words)