Paris Agreement on Climate Change

Definition

The Paris Agreement on Climate Change is an international treaty that aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with an aspirational goal of 1.5 degrees Celsius. It represents a collective effort by countries around the world to tackle climate change through nationally determined contributions (NDCs) and promotes long-term commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance climate resilience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Paris Agreement was adopted on December 12, 2015, during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris.
2. As of now, nearly every country in the world has ratified the Paris Agreement, highlighting its global significance and commitment to combating climate change.
3. The agreement emphasizes the importance of financial support for developing countries to help them transition to sustainable practices and cope with climate impacts.
4. Countries are required to review and update their NDCs every five years, aiming for greater ambition over time to meet the goals of the agreement.
5. The Paris Agreement is seen as a crucial framework for international cooperation on climate action, encouraging collaboration between nations, businesses, and civil society.

Review Questions

• How does the Paris Agreement facilitate international cooperation among nations in addressing climate change?
  • The Paris Agreement facilitates international cooperation by establishing a framework that requires countries to set and communicate their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It creates a system for countries to collectively assess progress towards their commitments, encourages sharing best practices, and fosters partnerships across sectors. This collaborative approach is essential for addressing a global challenge like climate change that transcends national borders.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement in achieving its climate goals.
  • The effectiveness of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) can be evaluated based on their ability to collectively reduce emissions sufficiently to meet the targets set by the Paris Agreement. While many countries have made ambitious commitments, the actual implementation and progress toward these goals vary widely. There are concerns that current NDCs are not yet sufficient to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, highlighting the need for increased ambition, accountability measures, and support for developing countries.
• Analyze how the Paris Agreement impacts global policies on energy transition and climate resilience, considering current geopolitical dynamics.
  • The Paris Agreement significantly impacts global policies on energy transition and climate resilience by promoting shifts towards renewable energy sources, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and enhancing adaptation strategies. Current geopolitical dynamics, including shifts in power among major economies and differing levels of commitment to climate action, influence how effectively these policies are implemented. Countries that prioritize green technology may gain economic advantages, while those lagging may face increasing pressure from both domestic and international communities to enhance their efforts. This interplay shapes not only national strategies but also global markets and environmental justice considerations.

Related terms

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Gases such as carbon dioxide and methane that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming and climate change.

Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): The commitments made by each country under the Paris Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate impacts, reflecting their capabilities and circumstances.

Climate Resilience: The ability of communities and ecosystems to adapt to the impacts of climate change, minimizing vulnerability and enhancing sustainability.