The Indian Consumer, Climate Change and Reduction Strategies

Policy for the mitigation of climate change through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions often tends to target production and producers. An alternative approach may be to look at consumption, and gear policy towards changing what consumers wish to purchase and consume. As India ‘develops’ in terms of a rapidly increasing GDP (gross domestic product), it has also become the third highest emitter of carbon dioxide. Indians consume more than before, not only in aggregate but also on a per capita basis. Whilst the rise in population contributes towards raising total consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, it is equally crucial to look at individual consumption behaviour and to recognise that climate policy has to target the unseen  consumer.