Climate Action Plan for Junagadh: Net Zero by 2050

The comprehensive report of Junagadh City Climate Action Plan, aiming for a Net-Zero carbon footprint by 2050, was presented to Junagadh Municipal Commissioner on July 12, 2024, developed with GCoM and funded by the EU.

Junagadh’s total emissions for the inventory year are 422,512 MTCO2e, translating to a per capita emission rate of 0.96 MTCO2e. Stationary energy accounts for over 63% of these emissions, with residential and industrial consumption being major contributors. Transportation emissions are nearly 25% of the total, primarily from petrol, diesel, and CNG vehicles. Waste emissions contribute 12%, including solid waste disposal and wastewater treatment.

The plan outlines a roadmap for Junagadh to achieve 'Net Zero' and 'Climate Resilient' status by 2050, focusing on mitigation and adaptation. GHG emissions for Junagadh are projected to increase by at least 2.6 times to 1,079,834 MTCO2e by 2050.

Strategies include advancing Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) and establishing Low Emission Zones (LEZs) to reduce vehicular emissions and promote clean public transport.

Junagadh, renowned for its cultural heritage, can leverage sustainable tourism and effective heritage management to cut emissions. Preserving historic sites reduces carbon-intensive construction, while promoting eco-friendly tourism encourages responsible visitor behavior. Property tax subsidies and incentives for private heritage structures to become homestays will enhance tourism and generate revenue.

Key objectives include:

  • Reducing the impact of heatwaves on vulnerable communities
  • Biodiversity conservation
  • Promoting a circular economy
  • Transition to zero tailpipe emissions vehicles
  • Energy-efficient municipal systems
  • Promoting energy efficiency in buildings