Why in news?
At COP28 and subsequent climate forums, the India–Sweden‑led Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT) launched its second phase, known as LeadIT 2.0, for 2024–2026. The initiative aims to fast‑track decarbonisation of heavy industries and help them align with the Paris Agreement.
Background
LeadIT was established by Sweden and India during the 2019 UN Climate Action Summit. It brings together countries and companies committed to reaching net‑zero emissions in sectors such as steel, cement, fertilisers, aluminium and chemicals. Heavy industry accounts for roughly one‑third of global greenhouse‑gas emissions, yet is often considered hard to abate. LeadIT addresses this challenge through collaboration, technology sharing and targeted roadmaps.
LeadIT 2.0 priorities
- Just and equitable transition: the initiative will serve as a global forum to ensure that workers and communities dependent on carbon‑intensive industries are supported during the transition.
- Technology transfer and co‑development: member countries will cooperate on research, development and deployment of low‑carbon technologies, including green hydrogen, carbon capture and sustainable fuels.
- Industry partnerships: LeadIT fosters partnerships such as the India–Sweden Industry Transition Partnership and the Brazil–UK Industry Decarbonisation Hub, which design sector‑specific roadmaps and pilot projects.
- Tools and trackers: resources like the Transition Tracker, Green Steel and Green Cement trackers help measure progress and identify gaps. Data‑driven insights guide investment and policy decisions.
Significance
- Reduces industrial emissions: by focusing on heavy industry, LeadIT addresses a major source of global emissions and helps meet national climate targets.
- Strengthens international cooperation: the initiative underscores leadership by emerging and developed economies working together, showcasing India’s role in global climate governance.
- Promotes innovation: joint research and demonstration projects accelerate the development of low‑carbon technologies and can stimulate green jobs.
Conclusion
LeadIT demonstrates that collaborative action can pave the way for clean, competitive and inclusive industries. As heavy‑industry decarbonisation becomes central to climate goals, platforms like LeadIT will be vital in sharing knowledge and mobilising resources.
Source: PIB