Clean development mechanism of Kyoto Protocol: Contribution of India in climate change mitigation and expectations of Indian project proponents

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to review the developments in India with respect to clean development mechanism (CDM) of Kyoto Protocol to assess the achievements during first Kyoto Protocol period (2008-2012) in climate change mitigation and suggest measure for better participation during the second commitment period. The paper further makes an attempt to explore the experience, concerns and expectations of the Indian project proponents of green projects registered with CDM Executive Board.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs two methods: informal interviews with executives of World Bank, Designated National Authority (DNA) of India for CDM, leading international CDM consulting firms and a questionnaire survey of Indian CDM projects proponents.

Findings

During first commitment period valid up to December 31, 2012, India remained active participant in the CDM, the only mechanism of Kyoto Protocol where developing countries can participate and join in mitigation of climate change, through the development of green projects and thereby earning additional revenue in terms of carbon finance by sale of carbon credits. The study finds out that in the global CDM experience, India's role is striking with its second highest share both in terms of number of projects registered worldwide and in generation of Certified Emission Reductions (CERs).

Originality/value

This paper provides several recommendations for strengthening the institutional frame work in India with respect to CDM as well as suggestions to policy makers for consideration while charting out future policies and programs addressing climate change mitigation and adaptation oriented towards better participation in climate change mitigation during the second commitment period of Kyoto Protocol.

Citation

Gupta, A. (2014), "Clean development mechanism of Kyoto Protocol: Contribution of India in climate change mitigation and expectations of Indian project proponents", International Journal of Climate Change Strategies and Management, Vol. 6 No. 2, pp. 116-130. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJCCSM-09-2012-0051