Paris Agreement

Definition

The Paris Agreement is an international treaty that was adopted in 2015 to address climate change and its impacts. It aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, preferably to 1.5 degrees, compared to pre-industrial levels, promoting efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance adaptive capacity in response to climate change.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Paris Agreement was adopted on December 12, 2015, at the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) in Paris, France.
2. It requires all participating countries to set and report on their climate action plans, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which are updated every five years.
3. The agreement emphasizes the importance of financial support for developing countries to assist them in both mitigation and adaptation efforts.
4. The Paris Agreement aims for a balance between greenhouse gas emissions and removals by the second half of this century, targeting net-zero emissions.
5. As of now, nearly every country in the world has signed the agreement, demonstrating a global commitment to tackle climate change collectively.

Review Questions

• How does the Paris Agreement aim to address the issue of climate change through international cooperation?
  • The Paris Agreement facilitates international cooperation by establishing a framework for countries to collectively commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By setting a target of limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, nations are encouraged to develop and implement their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which represent their specific climate action plans. This collaborative approach enables countries to share resources, technology, and knowledge, enhancing overall effectiveness in combating climate change.
• What challenges do countries face in meeting their commitments under the Paris Agreement, particularly regarding NDCs?
  • Countries encounter several challenges in fulfilling their commitments under the Paris Agreement. These include economic constraints that may hinder investment in renewable energy sources and technology, political resistance from stakeholders who may prioritize short-term economic gains over long-term sustainability, and varying capacities among nations to implement effective climate policies. Additionally, the need for consistent financial support for developing countries is crucial for enabling them to meet their NDCs and adapt to climate change impacts.
• Evaluate the potential impact of achieving net-zero emissions by mid-century as outlined in the Paris Agreement on global environmental policies.
  • Achieving net-zero emissions by mid-century could significantly transform global environmental policies by reinforcing commitments to sustainable development and climate resilience. This goal would likely drive innovations in clean technologies and renewable energy sectors while fostering international cooperation on environmental issues. It could also lead to stricter regulations on emissions and a shift toward circular economies, ultimately reshaping how societies operate regarding resource consumption and environmental stewardship. If successful, these changes could establish a new standard for environmental accountability among nations.

Related terms

Greenhouse Gases: Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, which are significant contributors to climate change.

Climate Change Mitigation: Strategies and actions aimed at reducing or preventing the emission of greenhouse gases to limit global warming.

Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): Each country's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate change under the Paris Agreement, reflecting their capabilities and responsibilities.