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31/05/2023 ---- 01/06/2023

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01.06.2023
THEME: ENVIRONMENT

Heatwaves in India: A Looming Crisis Demanding Urgent Action

India is grappling with the devastating effects of heatwaves as temperatures soar to 45°C (113°F) in recent weeks. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued heatwave alerts for some states, and with the southwest monsoon delayed until the first week of June, the situation is becoming increasingly dire for the country's vulnerable communities, particularly poor and daily-wage laborers working in outdoor industries such as construction.

In April, 13 people died from heatstroke in Maharashtra, and over 12 suffered from heat-related illnesses. Heatwaves have claimed more than 17,000 lives in India over the past 50 years, with South Asia being one of the regions most vulnerable to climate change. Temperatures in South Asia are now at least 2°C (3.6°F) hotter than in pre-industrial times, increasing the risks of heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke.

India is expected to lose 34 million jobs by 2030 due to heatwaves, and agricultural productivity and food security are also at risk. Despite having a lower per capita carbon footprint than Western industrialized nations, the Earth's surface temperature is on track to rise 2.7°C above preindustrial levels by 2100, pushing over 2 billion people worldwide outside the climate comfort zone – including 600 million in India.

In mid-April, a record-breaking heatwave struck Bihar, India, where temperatures exceeded 44 degrees Celsius. Bihar is the third-most populous Indian state, with a population of over 100 million, and has the country's lowest per capita GDP. Agriculture accounts for 77% of employment and 25% of the state's GDP, making it particularly vulnerable to the impacts of heatwaves.

Bihar established a Heat Action Plan (HAP) under the responsibility of the Disaster Management Department (DMD). However, insufficient infrastructure and funding have hindered the implementation of HAP actions. Over 500 public drinking water outlets have been built, but few are visible or accessible. Furthermore, the Heat Action Plan was formulated without input from climate researchers, leading to a lack of comprehensive understanding of the problem.

Aditya Valiathan Pillai, a fellow at the Centre for Policy Research, highlights the need for proper funding, implementation, and review of HAPs. Environmental activist Devopriya Dutta emphasizes the need for authorities to work on ground-level implementation to prevent further loss of life.

Recurring heatwaves in New Delhi are also affecting outdoor workers, with the Indian Meteorological Department issuing heatwave warnings on May 22 as temperatures in certain areas crossed 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit). Since 2010, an estimated 6,500 people have died from heat-related illnesses.

A drastic reduction in greenhouse gas emissions is needed to prevent further heatwaves, with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change calling for a 45 to 50 percent reduction in carbon emissions by 2030. Unfortunately, many Indian cities' heat action plans are inadequate or not implemented properly, highlighting the need for better city planning and housing infrastructure to adapt to heat stress.

India's escalating heatwave crisis demands urgent and comprehensive action. With millions of lives and livelihoods at stake, it is crucial for authorities to invest in effective heat action plans, improved infrastructure, and greenhouse gas emissions reductions to protect the country's most vulnerable populations and ensure a sustainable future.

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31.05.2023
THEME: ENVIRONMENT

The Environmental Dilemma of Animal Fat-Based Jet Fuel

The rising demand for greener jet fuel has led to the increased use of animal fats as an alternative to fossil fuels. However, a new study warns of potential unintended environmental consequences. The demand for fuel derived from animal by-products is expected to triple by 2030, but there may not be enough animal fat to meet this growing need. This scarcity could force other industries to rely more on palm oil, a major generator of carbon emissions.

Since 2006, the use of animal fat-based fuel in Europe has grown fortyfold, driven by UK and EU governments promoting waste materials for greener aviation. The UK aims for 10% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by 2030, while the EU targets 6%. However, due to sustainability concerns, the UK is considering limiting the use of animal fats and used cooking oil in aviation. This increased competition for animal fats may force industries like pet food manufacturing to seek alternative ingredients.

Transport accounts for 27% of Europe's greenhouse gas emissions, with cars contributing 12% of all emissions. Road freight emissions from trucks and vans are increasing, and aviation is the most climate-intensive transport mode. Shipping is responsible for over a tenth of transport CO2 emissions and is a significant source of air pollution. As 94% of transport's energy comes from oil, sustainable finance is crucial for decarbonizing the economy.

Addressing air quality issues requires well-enforced air pollution legislation and transforming urban mobility to tackle climate change. Rail is one of the greenest transport modes, and a higher share of rail journeys is necessary for decarbonization. Climate tools, such as cross-sector measures and agreements, can aid this transition.

Transport & Environment, Europe's leading clean transport campaign group, has expressed concerns over the climate impacts and potential fraud related to the growing demand for animal fats biofuels. Major airlines have deals with oil suppliers for SAF, which often include animal fats. A study on using purified animal fat as an additive in diesel fuel found that a blend ratio of up to 40% in standard diesel performs well for target engines, making it technically feasible and economically attractive while reducing the fuel's carbon balance.

The food industry generates fatty effluents, which are mostly eliminated in water treatment plants. Animal fats consist of triglycerides, proteins, water, and minerals. Fatty waste is classified based on its free fatty acid (FFA) content: 'yellow grease' (<15%) or 'brown grease' (>15%). Fatty waste is a cheaper source than vegetable oil, making it a potential feedstock for biofuel. Biodiesel is considered a possible substitute for standard diesel fuel, and heterogeneous catalysis offers a low-cost alternative for biodiesel fuel production.

In conclusion, while animal fats provide a promising alternative for greener jet fuel, the potential environmental impacts must be carefully considered. The increasing demand for animal fat-based fuel may lead to unintended consequences, such as increased reliance on palm oil and competition for resources among industries. As we pursue a greener future in transportation, it is essential to evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of various fuel sources, ensuring that our efforts to combat climate change do not inadvertently harm the environment.

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