Paris Agreement

Definition

The Paris Agreement is a landmark international treaty adopted in 2015 that aims to address climate change by limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius. This agreement emphasizes the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting sustainable resource consumption, and fostering resilience against climate impacts, highlighting a collective global effort toward sustainability.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Paris Agreement was adopted on December 12, 2015, at COP21 in Paris, involving nearly all countries in a commitment to combat climate change.
2. One of the key elements of the agreement is the requirement for each signatory country to submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) every five years, outlining their climate action plans.
3. The agreement encourages developed countries to provide financial assistance and technology transfer to developing nations to help them mitigate and adapt to climate change.
4. The Paris Agreement establishes a framework for transparency and accountability, enabling countries to report on their progress towards meeting their climate goals.
5. The goal of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius is crucial for preventing severe climate impacts such as extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and loss of biodiversity.

Review Questions

• How does the Paris Agreement encourage countries to take action against climate change?
  • The Paris Agreement encourages countries to take action against climate change by requiring each signatory nation to submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) that outline their specific plans for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These contributions are intended to be progressively more ambitious over time, fostering a culture of accountability. Additionally, the agreement promotes international cooperation and financial support for developing countries to enhance their ability to combat climate change effectively.
• Discuss the significance of transparency and accountability in the context of the Paris Agreement and its effectiveness.
  • Transparency and accountability are essential components of the Paris Agreement, as they ensure that countries adhere to their commitments and transparently report their progress in meeting climate goals. This system allows for mutual trust among nations and helps hold them accountable for their actions. By establishing a framework for regular reporting and review, the agreement aims to foster collective ambition and increase confidence in the global effort to combat climate change.
• Evaluate the potential impacts of the Paris Agreement on global resource consumption patterns and sustainability efforts in both developed and developing nations.
  • The Paris Agreement has the potential to significantly influence global resource consumption patterns by promoting sustainable practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In developed nations, this may involve transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and implementing sustainable agricultural practices. For developing nations, the agreement encourages investment in clean technologies and infrastructure that supports sustainable development while addressing economic growth. Overall, these shifts can lead to a more sustainable future where resources are consumed responsibly, benefiting both people and the planet.

Related terms

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

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A set of 17 global goals established by the United Nations to address various environmental, economic, and social challenges by 2030.

Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): Each country's individual plan for how they will reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to the goals of the Paris Agreement.