1. What is the role of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in addressing climate change?
The RBI is integrating considerations of climate change into its monetary policy framework to assess and mitigate its impact on economic stability. This includes examining how extreme weather events and climate shocks might influence food inflation and the natural rate of interest, thereby affecting the overall financial stability of the economy.
2. How does climate change impact economic stability according to the RBI?
According to the RBI’s Monetary Policy Report, climate change can lead to significant economic disruptions, influencing the natural rate of interest and potentially reducing long-term economic output by around 9% by 2050 if no mitigation policies are implemented. Climate-induced inflation could also undermine the RBI’s credibility and necessitate higher interest rates.
3. What is a green taxonomy, and why is it important?
A green taxonomy is a classification system that helps assess the sustainability credentials of economic activities. It’s crucial for guiding investments towards environmentally sustainable projects and for helping financial institutions and investors understand which activities are considered green and sustainable.
4. How are green taxonomies being developed globally and in India?
Globally, regions like the Eurozone have developed a green taxonomy to assess the sustainability impact across their economic value chains. In India, inspired by international examples and regional developments like those in the ASEAN region, efforts are underway to develop a layered green taxonomy that reflects the diverse sustainable trajectories and developmental needs of the country.
5. What steps has the RBI taken towards promoting green finance?
The RBI has started issuing Sovereign Green Bonds and has expanded the resource pool by allowing Foreign Institutional Investors to participate in green government securities. These measures are aimed at raising funds specifically for sustainable projects and initiatives within India.
6. What future actions are necessary for the RBI regarding climate change and economic stability?
The RBI must continue to enhance its assessments of the quantitative and qualitative impacts of climate change on economic and financial stability. This includes encouraging administrative consultations to develop a comprehensive and continually updated green taxonomy that can effectively guide India’s transition to a sustainable economy.
7. How does sustainable finance contribute to addressing climate change?
Sustainable finance involves directing financial flows—through investments, loans, and other financial instruments—to support economic activities that have a positive environmental impact. This approach not only helps mitigate the effects of climate change but also promotes a transition to a low-carbon, sustainable economic model.
These FAQs provide a foundation for understanding the RBI’s role in fostering a green economy and mitigating the economic impacts of climate change, highlighting the importance of financial strategies in promoting environmental sustainability.
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