Biennial Transparency Report (BTR)
Context:
The UNFCCC Secretariat recently published its first synthesis report based on over 100 Biennial Transparency Reports (BTRs) submitted by countries.
At the COP30 climate conference in Belém, Brazil, India's Environment Minister announced that India will release its first BTR and updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for 2035 by the end of the year (2025).
About Biennial Transparency Report (BTR):
It is a key reporting instrument under the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF)established by Article 13 of the Paris Agreement.
It replaces the earlier Biennial Reports (BR) and Biennial Update Reports (BUR).
It is designed to build mutual trust and confidence by tracking progress towards the Paris Agreement goals.
All Parties (except Small Island Developing States and Least Developed Countries, who have flexibility) were required to submit their first BTR by 31 December 2024, and every two years thereafter.
Key Components of a BTR
National Inventory Report (NIR):
This should have the data on Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and removals.
NDC Progress:
This should contain the information necessary to track progress in implementing and achieving Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Climate Change Impacts & Adaptation:
This should contain the information on climate impacts and adaptation measures (optional but encouraged).
Support:
This should contain the details on financial, technology transfer, and capacity-building support provided or received.
Significance:
Global Stocktake:
The data from BTRs feeds into the Global Stocktake process to assess collective global progress.
India's Achievements:
As part of its transparency commitment, India highlighted that:
Its non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity is around 256 GW, accounting for more than half of its total electric installed capacity.
It achieved its NDC target of 40% non-fossil fuel capacity five years ahead of the 2030 deadline.
Its emission intensity has declined by over 36% since 2005.