Paris Agreement

Definition

The Paris Agreement is a legally binding international treaty that aims to address climate change and limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, while pursuing efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius. It connects countries in a collective effort towards sustainable development, climate action, and the achievement of global goals focused on mitigating climate change impacts and fostering resilience against its effects.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Paris Agreement was adopted on December 12, 2015, during the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) in Paris, France.
2. It entered into force on November 4, 2016, after sufficient countries ratified it, representing over 55% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
3. The agreement requires all countries to regularly report on their emissions and progress towards their NDCs every five years.
4. Developed countries are expected to provide $100 billion annually by 2020 to support developing nations in their climate efforts.
5. The long-term goal of the Paris Agreement is to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by mid-century, prompting a global transition towards sustainable energy sources.

Review Questions

• How does the Paris Agreement facilitate international cooperation in combating climate change?
  • The Paris Agreement fosters international cooperation by establishing a framework where all countries are encouraged to set their own Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This collective approach allows nations to work together towards common goals while taking into account their unique circumstances and capabilities. Regular reporting and reviews promote transparency and accountability, enhancing trust among nations as they strive for a unified response to climate change.
• Discuss the implications of the financial commitments outlined in the Paris Agreement for developed and developing countries.
  • The financial commitments in the Paris Agreement, particularly the expectation for developed countries to provide $100 billion annually, play a crucial role in supporting developing nations' efforts to combat climate change. These funds are vital for enhancing resilience and adapting to climate impacts, enabling poorer nations to transition towards sustainable energy solutions. This financial assistance also addresses equity concerns by recognizing that developed countries have historically contributed more to greenhouse gas emissions and have greater resources available for climate action.
• Evaluate how the objectives of the Paris Agreement align with broader sustainable development goals and what challenges remain in achieving them.
  • The objectives of the Paris Agreement are closely aligned with sustainable development goals, particularly those focused on environmental sustainability, poverty reduction, and promoting clean energy. Achieving these intertwined goals requires overcoming significant challenges such as ensuring political will among nations, mobilizing adequate financial resources, and fostering technological innovation. Additionally, countries must address domestic pressures and diverse economic interests that can hinder progress on climate action while striving for sustainable development.

Related terms

Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): The specific commitments made by each country under the Paris Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to global climate goals.

Climate Finance: Financial resources provided to developing countries to help them mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change as part of their commitments under international agreements.

Greenhouse Gases (GHGs): Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming; key targets for reduction under the Paris Agreement.