India Ranks 10th in Climate Change Performance Index 2025: A Green Energy Leader Amidst Challenges
India ranks 10th in the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI 2025). This index evaluates over 60 countries on their climate change efforts. Despite falling two spots from last year, India maintains a strong position due to its low per capita emissions and rapid renewable energy growth.
The CCPI report, released at the annual UN climate conference, shows no country ranked in the top three. Denmark is in fourth place, and the Netherlands follows. China and the US rank low, at 55th and 57th, respectively.
The CCPI tracks emissions, renewable energy, and climate policy progress from major emitters. The 63 assessed countries and the European Union cover 90% of global emissions.
India’s per capita emissions are 2.9 tons of CO2 equivalent, well below the global average of 6.6 tons. It is the world’s third-largest greenhouse gas emitter. India aims for net zero emissions by 2070 and plans to achieve 500 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
Interview with Dr. Anjali Mehta: Climate Policy Specialist & Environmental Scientist
News Directory 3: Welcome, Dr. Mehta. Thank you for joining us today. India has ranked 10th in the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) for 2025, despite a slight fall from last year’s position. What are the key factors that contribute to India’s ranking?
Dr. Anjali Mehta: Thank you for having me. India’s position at 10th in the CCPI is significant, especially considering the number of countries evaluated. The primary factors contributing to this ranking are its low per capita emissions and the rapid expansion of its renewable energy sector. With a per capita emission of 2.9 tons of CO2 equivalent, India is far below the global average of 6.6 tons. This disparity demonstrates the country’s commitment to climate action despite being the third-largest greenhouse gas emitter globally.
News Directory 3: The report mentions that no country made it to the top three spots in this year’s index. What does this signify for global climate efforts?
Dr. Anjali Mehta: The absence of top-ranked countries reflects a critical state of affairs in global climate governance. It illustrates that even leading nations are struggling to meet stringent climate goals across all assessed criteria. The CCPI’s rigorous standards mean that achieving a ’very high’ rating is increasingly challenging, highlighting the need for enhanced climate ambition worldwide.
News Directory 3: India aims for net zero emissions by 2070 and plans to install 500 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2030. How realistic are these targets?
Dr. Anjali Mehta: The targets set by India are ambitious yet achievable. The government has already made significant strides in renewable energy, particularly through large solar projects and innovative schemes like the Rooftop Solar Scheme. However, achieving 500 gigawatts by 2030 requires sustained investment, technological advancements, and overcoming infrastructural challenges. India’s commitment to transitioning to a greener economy is commendable, but it will also need to balance its current reliance on coal.
News Directory 3: You mentioned India’s reliance on coal. How does this affect the country’s overall climate goals?
Dr. Anjali Mehta: While India’s coal reserves ensure energy security and economic growth, they pose a significant challenge to climate targets. The government is taking steps towards increasing renewable energy, but the heavy investment in coal production could undermine these efforts. Transitioning away from coal while meeting energy demands is a delicate balancing act that requires innovative solutions and possibly quicker adoption of cleaner technologies.
News Directory 3: The report also highlighted progress in electric vehicle use, particularly for two-wheelers. Can you elaborate on this?
Dr. Anjali Mehta: The push for electric vehicles (EVs), especially two-wheelers, is a critical aspect of India’s climate strategy. Considering the high usage of two-wheelers in urban areas, transitioning to electric alternatives can substantially reduce emissions. Initiatives like subsidies, infrastructure for charging stations, and public awareness campaigns are essential to catalyze this shift. If implemented effectively, this could propel India toward its climate ambitions more rapidly.
News Directory 3: What advice would you give to the Indian government to improve its ranking in future CCPI reports?
Dr. Anjali Mehta: To improve its ranking, India should focus on three main areas: first, enhancing the comprehensiveness of energy efficiency standards across sectors to minimize waste. Second, accelerating investments in renewable technologies to diversify energy sources and reduce dependency on coal. increasing public engagement and awareness regarding sustainability practices can drive community support for climate initiatives. These strategies will not only improve India’s CCPI ranking but also foster a sustainable future.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Dr. Mehta, for your insights on India’s performance in the Climate Change Performance Index.
Dr. Anjali Mehta: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important topic.
The report highlights India’s progress in renewable energy, especially through large solar projects and the Rooftop Solar Scheme. Energy efficiency standards have been implemented but are not comprehensive. India is also advancing electric vehicle use, particularly two-wheelers.
However, India continues to rely heavily on coal. It has large coal reserves and is increasing coal production.
The CCPI report leaves the top three spots empty because no country met the criteria for a “very high” rating across all categories.