Studies have shown that the proposed climate mitigation efforts of India appear modest in the face of the enormity of the climate change challenge. States such as Karnataka, meanwhile, have begun identifying areas of action via the State Action Plans. As Karnataka proceeds on a path of accelerated development, its demand for energy, water and other natural resources will grow rapidly; local and greenhouse gas emissions too will grow. This report highlights that to balance its long-term goals (environmental sustainability) and short term objectives (economic progress through industrialisation and job creation), the state of Karnataka will have to pursue a green growth paradigm. Access to modern energy services and resources for industrial growth and urbanisation needs to be prioritised. However, the focus needs to equally be on technological changes to improve efficiency and reduce the rate of emissions growth. The state can do a lot more to alleviate the stress on the climate and the environment while ensuring its development through effective policy formulation and implementation.
This report Transitioning towards a Green Economy in Karnataka focused on agriculture, buildings, industries, transport, and power supply – sectors that account for all the state’s energy requirement and over 70% of its Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. Sixteen opportunities are identified and evaluated based on their feasibility for implementation in the state, potential to reduce GHG emissions, and ability to fulfil the state’s vision for sustainable growth. This study presents policy recommendations and identifies specific research studies that could inform an action plan, needed to implement a green growth strategy.