Understanding the Clean Development Mechanism

The Kyoto Protocol introduced the Clean Development Mechanism as a countermeasure to climate change. This agreement between developed and developing countries aims to reduce emissions, protect the ozone layer, and promote a cleaner environment.

Under this program, financially affluent nations offer incentives to developing countries to implement projects that reduce greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide. In return, they earn CER credits or Emission Reduction Units, each equivalent to 1 tonne of CO₂.

Exploring Carbon Credit

• The concept of carbon credit exchange encourages countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Countries achieving their commitments are rewarded, and financial incentives are offered to developing nations.
• Excess credits, obtained by surpassing the emission reduction goals, can be traded globally.
• One credit corresponds to one tonne of CO₂ emissions avoided.
• The initiative boosts funding to developing nations, where numerous projects are underway.

Objectives of the Clean Development Mechanism

A Clean Development Mechanism project should produce measurable, long-term benefits in mitigating climate change. It should significantly reduce greenhouse emissions. The objectives of a Clean Development Mechanism are:

• To contribute to the prevention of climate change.
• To assist developing countries in developing sustainable strategies.
• To help industrialized countries reduce emissions and transition to greener energy sources.
• To aid countries in implementing innovative strategies for reducing emissions.
• To reduce dependency on fossil fuels.
• To use animal waste for energy production and manage it effectively.
• To reduce pollution generated during production processes.

Operation of the Clean Development Mechanism in India

Project Identification

The first step involves researching to identify a concept that has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Government Approval

Once identified, the concept is proposed to the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change for approval.

Project Development

Research is conducted to establish a baseline to monitor the change in emissions as per the Kyoto Protocol.

Authentication

An independent body, appointed by the CDM Administrative Entity, verifies the results of the initial identification survey.

Registration Process

Formal approval by the governing council turns the selected project into a CDM project, granting it all financial and legal benefits provided by the Kyoto Protocol.

Monitoring

Post-registration, changes in greenhouse gas emissions are monitored over time, and the project's execution is appropriately improved.

Verification

A team of experts verifies all data and results before sending them for certification.

Certification

After a thorough verification, the supervising authority confirms that the project has effectively reduced emissions as per the plan.