The document argues that climate change is no more an environmental concern. It has emerged as the biggest developmental challenge for the planet. Its economic impacts, particularly on the poor, make it a major governance issue as well. The debates and discussions building up for the next conference of parties (CoP) in Copenhagen and beyond are an indicator of this.
The document is divided into the following chapters:
Chapter 1. A just climate agreement: The framework for an effective global deal
This chapter argues that there is not much difference between managing a local forest and the global climate. Both are common property resources. What is needed most of all is a property rights framework, which encourages cooperation
Chapter 2. Is India a solution to the problem or a problem to the solution
This chapter draws a line between facts and fictions by demystifying six myths built around India’s stands on climate change. The analysis brings out that a country can have both growth and less carbon emissions.
Chapter 3. Food security in India
This chapter analyses the impact of climate change on food security in India that is already under threat due to various other reasons. The chapter strongly advocates adaptation to climate change through soil and water conservation
Chapter 4. Gender: The ignored other half
This chapter identifies the special vulnerabilities of women to climate change and argues for making gender an integral part of debates and discussions on climate change.
Chapter 5. Small scale industries Small yet significant
This chapter brings into focus an important but ignored sector, the small-scale industries. The small-scale industries emit substantial greenhouse gases and have the potential for saving a huge amount of energy. The chapter identifies ways in which this sector can be made energy efficient.
A copy of the document can be accessed at this link