Climate change: Nations must do their bit

This refers to the article, “India in struggle against climate change” (January 11) by Kota Sriraj. There is now an informed and rational opinion that in matters of climate change, atmospheric pollution and freshwater fouling, we have reached a tipping point, if not transcended it. Worldwide awareness, including in this country in general, is, however, largely missing. The world is somehow divided between the developed and the developing and blame-game continues unabated to take ownership. There is a harrowing gap among countries about sharing technology and financing. While proactive leadership by a few well-meaning countries can be a model to emulate, it will be suicidal if the world as a whole does not put its act together. Even if that happens, as is apparent with many villains around, it will still be wise that we do our part.

While the political leadership in this country will have to maintain its drastic and far-reaching assertiveness, an apparently reluctant bureaucracy will have to fall in line to execute the actions for time-bound and definitive results. Our tech force will shoulder the responsibility to work at war footing to evolve and innovate techniques and tools in cohort with the industry to reduce environmental pains. Power and auto industries are expected to speedily shift towards renewable energies following the European example. Many erring men have created grim situations, but wise people have to remedy them. With our civilizational values, attitudes and understanding, our leadership has to guide us and hopefully nudge the world even if many are not willing to come on board.