The energy sector, including power generating stations and transport, is the major contributor for the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Tamil Nadu followed by industry and construction, according to a study on Tamil Nadu Carbon Footprint.

Energy sector and industry account for over 90 per cent of the total GHG emission from the State, according to the study by Confederation of Indian Industry with the support of the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Officer and the Madras School of Economics.

The study done in 2012 for the baseline period of 2009-10 indicates that the total GHG emission in the State was 111.86 million tonnes. The state’s per capita GHG emission stands at 1.59 tonnes of carbon-di-oxide.

Out of the total GHG emissions, the energy sector accounts for 75.73 per cent of carbon-dioxide emissions. Within the energy sector, the power generation alone contributes nearly 46 per cent, transport 18 per cent, industrial sector 16 per cent and waste 2 per cent. There is a need to develop appropriate policy instruments to reduce the GHG emissions by these sectors, the report said.

Green fund

The report suggested fiscal instruments for climate-friendly industrial development. This includes creation of a green fund. Releasing the report at a seminar on “Sustainability: Climate Friendly Growth to Unlock the Business Potential” organised by CII, CV Sankar, Tamil Nadu Industry Secretary, said the industry and government should come together to reduce gas emission. For instance, nearly 20,000 vehicles are added in the State every day. The focus should be on manufacturing fuel-efficient vehicles for which fiscal incentives should be provided.

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