Paris Agreement

Definition

The Paris Agreement is an international treaty adopted in 2015 aimed at addressing climate change and its impacts by limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. It signifies a collective commitment by countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance adaptive capacities, and promote sustainable development while recognizing the importance of protecting human rights and environmental integrity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Paris Agreement was adopted by 196 parties during the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) in Paris, France, marking a historic moment in global climate diplomacy.
2. Countries are required to submit and update their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) every five years, with the expectation that they will become increasingly ambitious over time.
3. The agreement includes provisions for financial assistance to developing countries, recognizing that they may need support for mitigation and adaptation efforts.
4. As of 2021, nearly all countries in the world are parties to the agreement, demonstrating a broad commitment to addressing climate change on a global scale.
5. The Paris Agreement emphasizes the importance of involving civil society and local communities in climate action, highlighting the intersection of environmental sustainability and human rights.

Review Questions

• How does the Paris Agreement encourage countries to work together on climate change, and what mechanisms are in place to ensure accountability?
  • The Paris Agreement fosters international cooperation by requiring countries to set their own Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for reducing emissions while also holding them accountable through a system of transparency and reporting. Each country must communicate its progress every five years, allowing for a collective assessment of global efforts. This framework encourages nations to not only commit to their goals but also to engage in dialogue and share best practices, thus strengthening global collaboration on climate action.
• Discuss the relationship between the Paris Agreement and human rights, particularly in regard to vulnerable populations affected by climate change.
  • The Paris Agreement acknowledges that climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including marginalized communities, indigenous peoples, and low-income countries. By incorporating principles that protect human rights within its framework, the agreement calls for climate action that considers social equity and environmental justice. This connection emphasizes the need for inclusive decision-making processes and policies that aim not only to mitigate climate change but also to address the disparities it exacerbates.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the Paris Agreement in achieving its goals of limiting global warming and promoting sustainable development amid growing geopolitical tensions.
  • While the Paris Agreement represents a significant step forward in global efforts against climate change, its effectiveness is challenged by various factors, including geopolitical tensions and differing national interests. Some countries may prioritize economic growth over environmental commitments, leading to inadequate implementation of NDCs. Additionally, as seen during events like the COVID-19 pandemic, nations may face competing priorities that hinder climate action. Therefore, achieving the goals of limiting global warming while promoting sustainable development requires ongoing collaboration, innovation, and dedication from all parties involved.

Related terms

Climate Change Mitigation: Efforts and strategies aimed at reducing or preventing the emission of greenhouse gases to curb climate change.

Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): The commitments made by each country under the Paris Agreement to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and outline their plans for achieving those targets.

Green Climate Fund: A global fund established to support the efforts of developing countries in responding to climate change, particularly in relation to mitigation and adaptation strategies.