STRENGTHENING CLIMATE CHANGE LEGISLATION ON ENVIRONMENTAL LAW

ABSTRACT
Climate change legislation is a cornerstone of modern environmental law, demanding urgent
reinforcement to address escalating global ecological crises. In India, frameworks like the
Environment Protection Act (1986) and the National Green Tribunal Act (2010) provide
foundational tools for regulating emissions and adjudicating disputes. The National Action
Plan on Climate Change (2008) and Energy Conservation Act (2001) further outline strategies
for renewable energy adoption and energy efficiency. Despite these efforts, persistent
challenges—such as weak enforcement, industrial non-compliance, deforestation, and
fragmented policy coordination—undermine India's climate goals, including its Paris
Agreement pledge to reduce emissions intensity by 33–35% by 2030.
Strengthening climate legislation requires a multi-pronged approach. Existing laws need
modernization to incorporate binding emission reduction targets and sector-specific mandates,
particularly for industries like coal and transportation. Enforcement mechanisms must be
bolstered through increased funding for regulatory bodies, stricter penalties for violations, and
enhanced public access to environmental justice via institutions like the National Green
Tribunal. Integrating climate equity into legal frameworks is critical to protect marginalized
communities disproportionately affected by floods, droughts, and air pollution. This paper
argues that a dedicated Climate Resilience Act, harmonizing existing policies with emerging
challenges, could serve as a blueprint for transformative legal reform.