Chennai’s greenhouse gas emissions could rise sharply in the coming decades if strong action is not taken. According to the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) in its latest ‘Climate Budget’ report, the city’s emissions are expected to increase nearly four times by 2050 compared to 2018 levels. The report says emissions could reach 55.08 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO₂e) by 2050 if no new steps are taken to reduce pollution.
Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, trap heat in the atmosphere and contribute to global warming. A sharp rise in emissions could lead to more extreme weather, heatwaves, flooding, and other climate-related problems in Chennai.
To prevent this, the GCC has prepared a plan to reduce emissions and make the city more climate-friendly. The ‘Climate Budget’ report outlines several projects aimed at cutting pollution and building climate resilience. These include improving public transport, promoting electric vehicles, increasing green spaces, strengthening waste management systems, improving energy efficiency in buildings, and encouraging the use of renewable energy.
The Corporation has identified projects worth ₹7,200.53 crore. This amount represents the total estimated cost needed to plan, design, construct, and complete these projects over several financial years. The spending will not happen all at once but will be spread across multiple years.
Officials say the climate budget will help Chennai move towards cleaner energy, reduce pollution, and prepare better for climate risks. The report highlights that early action is important to avoid higher costs and greater environmental damage in the future.
By investing now, the GCC aims to reduce emissions, improve public health, and make Chennai a more sustainable and climate-resilient city by 2050.