Advocating Ecosystem-Based Approaches for Biodiversity
During his address, Shri Yadav emphasized India’s strong support for ecosystem-based approaches, participatory implementation, and landscape-level conservation models in the biodiversity and conservation track. He cautioned against the commodification of biodiversity, urging a deeper examination to ensure sustainable practices.
Land Restoration as an Economic and Ecological Opportunity
On land degradation, desertification, drought, and water sustainability, India welcomed the recognition of land restoration as both an economic and ecological opportunity. Shri Yadav advocated for co-developed, non-restrictive technology transfers and proposed a ‘G20 Knowledge and Solution Exchange Platform’ to share best practices. He emphasized voluntary and flexible global standards, prioritizing the inclusion of women, youth, and small farmers.
Circular Economy and Responsible Waste Management
India appreciated the G20’s focus on the circular economy in chemicals and waste management. Shri Yadav highlighted India’s Extended Producer Responsibility frameworks as scalable models for global adoption. He stressed that global frameworks for chemical management should remain voluntary and nationally determined to avoid overburdening small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and developing economies. Additionally, he urged the group to avoid trade linkages or prescriptive technology standards in waste management.
Climate Change and Equitable Transitions
Addressing climate change and just transitions, Shri Yadav reiterated India’s commitment to integrating climate and development goals while upholding equity and the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities. He underscored that climate finance, technology transfer, and capacity-building support are critical for ensuring fair transitions across all sectors.
Cooperative Approaches to Air Quality
India endorsed cooperative capacity-building to improve air quality but cautioned against adopting a one-size-fits-all approach, emphasizing the need for solutions tailored to national contexts.
Sustainable Oceans and Coastal Management
On oceans and coasts, India supported Marine Spatial Planning to promote sustainable development and biodiversity conservation. Shri Yadav advocated for voluntary approaches to address abandoned and lost fishing gear, ensuring the protection of small fishers’ livelihoods. He emphasized that decarbonizing marine transport must align with principles of equity and climate justice, considering national circumstances and clearly defined means of implementation for developing countries.
Looking Ahead: Building on Global Commitments
In conclusion, Shri Yadav expressed optimism about translating shared commitments into measurable global outcomes. He extended India’s support to the South African Presidency’s efforts and looked forward to collaborating with the incoming presidency to advance these goals.