A recent study by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) predicts a significant 31% increase in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Chennai by 2034.
The city’s baseline emission study for this year indicates that emissions currently stand at 25.12 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MtCO2e) and are expected to escalate to 39.96 MtCO2e by 2034. The study identifies the primary sources of these emissions: 76% will emanate from the built environment and energy production, 18% from transportation, and 6% from solid waste management, mainly due to leachate from the city’s dump yards. Methane emissions from the Kodungaiyur and Perungudi dump yards, which handle 6,000 metric tons of waste daily, contribute significantly to the city’s GHG levels.
Presented to the Greater Chennai Corporation, the IFC study underscores the urgency of implementing climate-friendly initiatives. The proposed projects include congestion taxes in busy traffic corridors, carbon credit trading, the development of solar-powered green buildings, improved industrial stack emissions, and enhanced solid waste management facilities. These initiatives are part of the broader Chennai City Climate Change Action Plan, developed by C40 Cities and recently unveiled by Chief Minister M K Stalin. The action plan aims to significantly curb GHG emissions by 2030.
Faiza Solanki, IFC’s consultant for business development and climate strategy, highlighted the organisation’s intention to explore sponsorship models for these projects. The government has established the Manali-Ennore Restoration and Rejuvenation Company (MERRC) to oversee the execution of these initiatives. Additionally, GCC Commissioner J Radhakrishnan has requested the World Bank to provide climate change impact training to the city’s 200 councillors.This strategic action plan underscores Chennai’s commitment to combating climate change and reducing its carbon footprint, aiming for a more sustainable and resilient urban environment.
