On June 28, 2024, the 10th Meeting of BRICS Environment Ministers took place in a hybrid format under the Chairship of the Russian Federation. It was the first meeting of the BRICS Environment Ministers after joining of five new members, i.e. Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Union Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, represented India virtually.
Minister Yadav highlighted the importance of the expanded BRICS bloc, suggesting that the larger grouping can now more effectively set the agenda for addressing global environmental challenges. He emphasized that BRICS initiatives should align with the principles and goals established by the United Nations and its agencies, particularly in ensuring that developing countries have access to the remaining carbon space.
Yadav stressed the critical role of sustainable lifestyles in mitigating global environmental issues. He called on BRICS nations to promote the implementation of the 'Resolution on Sustainable Lifestyles', which was adopted at the sixth United Nations Environment Assembly.
Union Minister also underscored the need for developed countries to meet their commitments to provide financial support and other means of implementation, as agreed upon at the UNFCCC COP and CBD COP. He warned against viewing climate finance solely as an investment opportunity, advocating instead for it to be seen as a fulfillment of obligations.
Highlighting India’s proactive measures, both domestically and internationally, Yadav urged BRICS nations to support the "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" campaign launched by PM Modi on World Environment Day 2024. He also encouraged participation in global initiatives led by India, such as Mission LiFE, the International Big Cats Alliance (IBCA), Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT), Green Credit Initiative, Renewable Energy and Circular Economy Innovation Cluster (RE & CE-IC), and the Global Innovation and Research Group on Green Infrastructure (GIR-GIP).
In conclusion, Yadav called for strengthening and expanding collaboration among BRICS nations. He emphasized the importance of continued cooperation in multilateral forums to uphold the principles of equity and Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC).
The meeting concluded with the adoption of the Statement of the 10th BRICS Environment Ministers Meeting, held in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia.
