The 2024 Environmental Performance Index (EPI) leverages the latest data, science, and advanced technology to deliver a comprehensive global sustainability assessment.
India’s EPI Ranking Raises Concerns
India ranks 176th out of 180 countries in the 2024 Environmental Performance Index (EPI). This is based on 58 indicators that assess ecosystem vitality, environmental health, and air and water quality. The country’s low performance is largely due to severe issues in air pollution, emissions, and biodiversity loss.
Coal Dependency Drives High Emissions
India’s heavy reliance on coal contributes to high greenhouse gas emissions. The country ranks 177th in air quality, just ahead of Pakistan and Bangladesh. Projections for 2025 emissions further highlight the problem, with India ranked 172nd.
Biodiversity Loss Due to Encroachments
The report points to the failure of “paper parks” in India. These protected areas are not effectively safeguarding ecosystems. Encroachments for construction and agriculture are undermining biodiversity preservation, pushing India further down in the biodiversity category.
Climate Progress Amid Challenges
Despite these issues, India has improved in climate change mitigation, ranking 133rd. This progress is due to investments in renewable energy and a goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. However, meeting this target will require an annual investment of $160 billion.
India must urgently address its reliance on coal and improve environmental policies to enhance its future rankings.
About the Report
Mounting evidence shows the degradation of Earth’s life-support systems due to heavy reliance on fossil fuels, resulting in pollution, ocean acidification, and greenhouse gas emissions. This endangers species facing habitat loss and has led humanity to breach six of nine critical planetary boundaries. Addressing these crises requires a data-driven approach to environmental policymaking. The 2024 Environmental Performance Index (EPI) uses 58 indicators to rank 180 countries on climate action, ecosystem health, and environmental progress. The EPI assesses progress towards UN Sustainable Development Goals, the Paris Agreement, and biodiversity protection, highlighting leaders and identifying areas needing improvement.
