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A Comparative Study of Sweden and India in Addressing Climate Change
Introduction
Climate change is one of the most urgent global challenges today. It affects all countries, but the way each state responds can differ based on its economy, geography, and political will. I chose to compare Sweden and India because they are very different in terms of development and climate responsibilities. Sweden is a developed European country with strong environmental policies, while India is a fast-growing economy with a large population and many development needs. This essay explores how both countries deal with climate change, the similarities and differences in their approaches, and how they engage with international organisations to protect their interests.
The Global Challenge: Climate Change
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, mainly due to human activities such as burning fossil fuels. It leads to rising sea levels, extreme weather, and loss of biodiversity. For some countries, it causes droughts; for others, floods. It is a global issue that needs collective action. However, countries contribute differently to the problem and have varied capabilities to fight it.
How Climate Change Affects Sweden and India
In Sweden, climate change has led to milder winters, increased rainfall, and more frequent flooding. While Sweden has strong infrastructure, these changes affect agriculture and biodiversity. In India, climate change is more severe, with rising temperatures, unpredictable monsoons, heatwaves, and melting glaciers in the Himalayas. Millions of people are affected by floods, droughts, and loss of crops.
The difference in how climate change manifests is clear. Sweden is adjusting to moderate shifts, while India faces life-threatening challenges. This is largely due to geographical differences and levels of development.
Comparison of Responses
Sweden has been a global leader in tackling climate change. It aims to become carbon neutral by 2045 and has introduced carbon taxes, encouraged electric vehicles, and invested in renewable energy. The Swedish government works closely with its citizens and businesses to reduce emissions.
India, on the other hand, faces a difficult balance between development and environmental protection. It has set targets under the Paris Agreement and aims to reach net zero by 2070. India is investing in solar energy and electric vehicles, but it also continues to rely on coal due to its economic needs and energy demands.
While both countries are active in climate policy, their capacities differ. Sweden has the resources to implement green policies quickly. India, with its large population and poverty issues, must progress more gradually.
Do They Cooperate?
Sweden and India do cooperate to some extent, especially through international platforms like the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). They are both part of the Paris Agreement, where each country sets its own climate targets. Sweden supports green technology transfer to developing countries, and India benefits from such partnerships.
In 2018, Sweden and India launched a joint innovation partnership for a sustainable future. It focuses on smart cities, clean energy, and sustainable transport. This shows that cooperation is possible and beneficial when interests align.
Use of International Organisations and Multilateral Arrangements
Both countries use international bodies to support their climate goals. Sweden works actively within the European Union (EU) to push for ambitious climate targets. It also funds climate projects in developing countries through the Green Climate Fund.
India, as a developing country, uses platforms like G77 and BRICS to advocate for climate justice. It argues that rich countries should do more because they caused more historical emissions. India also co-founded the International Solar Alliance to promote solar power in tropical countries.
These organisations help both countries protect their interests: Sweden promotes high standards and climate leadership, while India seeks fair treatment and financial support.
