Time to make climate part of green impact reports

The changing weather patterns over the last few years have shown us extreme conditions such as severe heat, storms causing flooding in urban areas, and very cold winters. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that climate change threatens the essential ingredients of good health — clean air, safe drinking water, nutritious food supply, and safe shelter.

Key-Highlights of the WHO Report

• Health Threats: WHO estimates that between 2030 and 2050, climate change could cause approximately 250,000 additional deaths per year from malnutrition, malaria, diarrhea, and heat stress.
• Economic Impact: Direct costs to health are estimated to be between $2 billion and $4 billion per year by 2030.
• Vulnerable Populations: Those most at risk include women, children, the elderly, ethnic minorities, people with pre-existing health conditions, and those living in poverty.

Study on Climate Impact in India

• Heat and Pregnancy: A study by the Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (SRIHER) in Chennai found that working in extreme heat can double the risk of stillbirth and miscarriage for pregnant women.
• Health Infrastructure: Regions with weak health infrastructure, mostly in developing countries, will struggle to cope with these challenges without significant assistance.

Public Interest Litigation on Climate Change

• Madras High Court Case: A significant public interest litigation was filed in the Madras High Court by G. Sundarrajan of the NGO Poovulagin Nanbargal. The plea highlighted the lack of a climate change component in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process for large-scale projects.
• Court’s Stance: The First Division Bench of the Madras High Court deemed the plea just and called on the Centre to reply within two weeks, indicating the potential for this case to set a precedent.

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

• Climate Change Component: The EIA should include an assessment of the impact of climate change, starting from construction until the end of the project's life. This includes evaluating the carbon footprint, greenhouse gas emissions, and impact on local communities' health.
• Environmental Management Plan: A comprehensive Environmental Management Plan should be prepared to mitigate the impact and submitted for government evaluation before granting clearance.

International Examples

• Legislation in Other Nations: Countries like the Bahamas, France, Chile, the United States, China, and Australia have enacted legislation to address climate change.
• Need for Indian Legislation: Given the significant impact of climate change on India, it is crucial for the country to enact laws that aim to conserve environmental gains and prevent further degradation due to human activities.

Required Measures

• Strengthening EIA Processes: Incorporate detailed climate change assessments in EIA processes for all large-scale projects.
• Legislation and Enforcement: Enact and enforce laws that specifically address climate change impacts and promote sustainable development.
• Support for Vulnerable Populations: Develop targeted programs to support those most vulnerable to climate change impacts, including investments in health infrastructure and education.

Mains Practice Question

Q: "Discuss the impact of climate change on public health, with a focus on vulnerable populations, and suggest measures to mitigate these effects in the context of India."