Researchers worldwide have been exploring methods to combat climate change across political, social, and economic dimensions. A key area of focus and discussion is the role of democratic institutions and structures in advancing sustainable practices for a healthier planet.
Addressing a global issue of this magnitude requires the active participation of the public and everyday citizens. According to Mr. B. S. Mubarak, the Consul General of India in Frankfurt, a vibrant democracy has the ability to unite its people towards a shared goal.
Active engagement mainly involves two elements – awareness and action. The current challenge is effectively disseminating the correct type of awareness via readily accessible social media. Public education will involve critical discussions to broaden the conversation around climate-related issues. Moreover, mere awareness is insufficient to tackle this global challenge. It demands corresponding actions that support the process and help direct awareness toward
the specific goal of addressing the problem. This could be a minor issue on an individual scale or a collective concern at the community level.
Democratic structures and institutions are crucial in this context. In a democracy, public opinion is essential to its vitality. Opinions can circulate between the people and the government, shaping an effective policy approach through sufficient public input, and the resulting policy is more likely to be accepted by the public.
Social media has become a highly influential source of information, where public opinions are openly expressed. As a result, government agencies integrate these opinions into their policies. The initiative for solar rooftops on every home, announced by India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a goal of installing 1 billion solar panels, is a strategic outreach program that can effectively capture public interest.
In India, even the Panchayats, which are grassroots public institutions at the village level, have their own budgets, making them autonomous entities that assist in policy formulation and execution.
Democracy is a political system where the people's will is paramount. Consequently, addressing a global issue like climate change requires reshaping institutions at all levels—local, national, and international—to reflect the people's will. This approach will tackle the problems of excessive bureaucracy, engage public interest, and promote active participation.
Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE) is a global call launched by the Government of India in 2021 at COP26 in Glasgow towards "mindful and deliberate utilisation, instead of mindless and destructive consumption".
This is a perfect example of a citizens' initiative that encourages people to reflect on their lifestyles and make meaningful changes to lessen their environmental impact. Indians have long practiced a circular economy—we don't discard old furniture but pass it on to those less fortunate, we repurpose old clothes for cleaning, and the milkman delivers milk directly to our homes, avoiding cartons. These are just a few examples showcasing our sustainable way of life, emphasizes Mr. Mubarak.
While planting trees is a positive initial step, it may not be enough. Engaging local NGOs, as well as temples, mosques, and other religious institutions that are integral to community life, can be crucial in tackling climate challenges locally. These efforts can include waste reduction, cleaning water bodies, tree planting, and encouraging children and youth to participate.
"Good Policies on Climate Change is also good politics" – Mr. B.S. Mubarak.
In India, politics permeates every level of society. Even for a minor cultural event in the community, a politician is invited. This provides an opportunity for the politician to interact with the people, hear their grievances and complaints. Many problems in India are resolved through these informal channels, bypassing more bureaucratic routes. Therefore, if a politician can leverage the issue of climate change to connect with the people, it ultimately represents effective politics that will yield political benefits.
India is investing in and promoting technology-driven startups focused on climate change. As the world continues to shift towards a more digital environment, technology will be crucial in tackling this issue and developing solutions. The competition among these technologies will ultimately reduce their costs, making them accessible to a broader segment of society. Thus, investing in and promoting these technologies at this critical moment will yield future benefits.
Ultimately, with education and mindset, significant change can be achieved. A government alone cannot accomplish everything. Addressing a global challenge of this scale requires a collective effort.
コメント