India at 176 among 180 countries in Environment Performance Index 2024, high emissions flagged again

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Last Updated15/06/2024

India, the third largest emitter of greenhouse gases, was placed among the lowest-rung countries in air quality, projected emissions, and biodiversity and habitat in the 2024 Environment Performance Index (EPI).

India ranked 176th among 180 countries, above Pakistan, Vietnam, Laos, and Myanmar only, in the overall index, released 5 June by the Yale Center for Environmental Law and Policy and the Columbia Center for International Earth Science Information Network.
This is a mild improvement to the last EPI in which India came at the bottom.

Top Performers: Estonia takes the top spot, showing a major reduction in greenhouse gas emissions since 1990.
Countries in Western Europe and Eastern Europe do well overall, reflecting strong environmental efforts.
India's Low Ranking: India sits near the bottom (176th) with only a few countries scoring worse. Air quality, emissions, and biodiversity are especially concerning areas.
Coal Dependence Hurts: India's heavy reliance on coal is a big factor in its low ranking. Coal use creates both air pollution and high greenhouse gas emissions.
Worst Air Quality in Region: India has the worst air quality in South Asia, even surpassing neighbors like Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Transboundary Pollution: India is the biggest source of air pollution affecting neighboring countries, harming public health in the region.
Climate Change Efforts Show Promise: Despite the low overall score, India gets a better ranking (133rd) in climate change. Investments in renewable energy and a 2070 net-zero goal contribute to this.
Financial Needs: To meet its climate goals, India will need an additional $160 billion annually for mitigation efforts.
Mixed Performance by Category: Waste management, forests, and agriculture boost India's score, while air quality, emissions, and biodiversity bring it down.