Climate Change And Carbon Tax: A Legal Perspective
- IJLLR Journal
- Feb 20
- 1 min read
K. Kokila, Bharath Institute of Law, BIHER
W.V. Sophia Stella Sargunam, Bharath Institute of Law, BIHER
Introduction
Climate change stands as one of the most significant global challenges of the 21st century. Indicators such as increasing temperatures, severe weather events, glacial retreat, and rising sea levels highlight the urgent necessity to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Among the various strategies to combat climate change, the carbon tax is recognized as a potent economic and legal instrument. This policy seeks to diminish carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by assigning a cost to carbon, thereby motivating both businesses and individuals to pursue cleaner energy alternatives.
Understanding Climate Change
Climate change encompasses long-term shifts in temperature, precipitation patterns, and other atmospheric conditions resulting from both natural processes and human activities. The predominant driver of current climate change is anthropogenic activity, particularly the combustion of fossil fuels (including coal, oil, and gas), deforestation, and emissions from industrial processes. These actions release substantial quantities of CO2 and other GHGs into the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect and the phenomenon of global warming.
Legal Framework of Carbon Tax
A carbon tax is a financial charge levied based on the carbon content of fossil fuels. Its purpose is to encapsulate the environmental costs associated with carbon emissions, thereby increasing the cost of high-carbon energy sources and promoting a shift towards renewable energy options1. The regulations governing carbon taxes differ across various jurisdictions, with international agreements such as the Paris Agreement advocating for the implementation of carbon pricing strategies by nations.
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