Paris Agreement

Definition

The Paris Agreement is a landmark international treaty established in 2015 aimed at combating climate change and its impacts by limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. This agreement emphasizes the importance of global cooperation and accountability in addressing the urgent challenges posed by climate change.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Paris Agreement was adopted by 196 countries at the COP21 conference held in Paris in December 2015.
2. One of the main goals is to limit global temperature rise to well below 2 degrees Celsius, with an aim to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius, which is crucial for reducing climate-related risks.
3. Countries are required to submit their NDCs every five years, showing progress and commitment to emission reductions.
4. The agreement emphasizes the need for financial assistance to developing countries to help them cope with the effects of climate change and transition to sustainable practices.
5. The Paris Agreement operates on a framework of transparency and accountability, ensuring that countries report on their progress towards meeting their climate goals.

Review Questions

• How does the Paris Agreement facilitate international cooperation among countries in addressing climate change?
  • The Paris Agreement facilitates international cooperation by establishing a common framework where all participating countries commit to set their own climate targets through Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). This creates a sense of shared responsibility, as each country must report their progress regularly and demonstrate accountability. By fostering transparency, it encourages nations to collaborate, share technology, and provide support to one another, particularly in terms of financial resources for developing countries.
• Evaluate the significance of the 1.5-degree Celsius target outlined in the Paris Agreement for global environmental policies.
  • The 1.5-degree Celsius target is significant because it underscores the urgent need for aggressive action against climate change to avoid catastrophic impacts on ecosystems, economies, and human health. This target pushes global environmental policies towards more stringent emission reduction goals and adaptation strategies. It has prompted discussions about the necessary shifts in energy production, transportation, and land use, while also influencing national policies and international negotiations aimed at achieving sustainable development.
• Analyze the challenges and opportunities presented by the implementation of the Paris Agreement in relation to sustainable development worldwide.
  • Implementing the Paris Agreement presents both challenges and opportunities for sustainable development. Challenges include varying levels of commitment among countries, financial constraints, and resistance from industries reliant on fossil fuels. However, it also opens opportunities for innovation in clean energy technologies, economic growth through green jobs, and investment in sustainable infrastructure. As nations strive to meet their NDCs, there is potential for greater collaboration on environmental initiatives that can lead to a more resilient and equitable global economy.

Related terms

Climate Action: Efforts and policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the impacts of climate change.

Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): Each country's self-defined plan for reducing greenhouse gas emissions as part of the commitments made under the Paris Agreement.

Green Climate Fund: A fund established to assist developing countries in their efforts to respond to climate change by funding projects that reduce emissions and enhance resilience.