Paris Agreement

Definition

The Paris Agreement is an international treaty adopted in 2015 aimed at combating climate change and limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. It represents a collective effort by countries around the world to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance adaptive capacity, and promote sustainable development in response to the urgent threat posed by climate change.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Paris Agreement marks a significant shift from previous climate agreements by requiring all participating countries to submit their own emissions reduction targets, known as NDCs.
2. The agreement emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability through a mechanism for countries to report their progress every five years.
3. Developed countries are expected to provide financial support to developing nations to help them transition to low-emission economies and cope with the impacts of climate change.
4. The Paris Agreement encourages countries to engage in cooperation and partnerships, promoting technology transfer and capacity-building efforts.
5. As of now, nearly every country in the world has ratified the Paris Agreement, reflecting a global consensus on the need for collective action against climate change.

Review Questions

• How does the Paris Agreement influence national policies regarding greenhouse gas emissions?
  • The Paris Agreement compels countries to develop and implement Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) that outline their specific goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This framework encourages nations to assess their current emissions, set measurable targets, and adjust their policies accordingly. By holding countries accountable for their commitments and fostering transparency through regular reporting, the agreement shapes national strategies towards more sustainable practices.
• Discuss the challenges that countries face in meeting their commitments under the Paris Agreement.
  • Countries encounter various challenges in fulfilling their commitments under the Paris Agreement, including economic constraints, political resistance, and differing levels of development. Many developing nations may lack the financial resources or technological capabilities necessary to implement effective climate strategies. Additionally, domestic political agendas can sometimes conflict with international obligations, making it difficult for governments to prioritize climate actions. These challenges necessitate collaborative support from developed nations to help bridge gaps and enhance global cooperation.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of the Paris Agreement on global climate governance and its role in achieving sustainability.
  • The Paris Agreement represents a transformative approach to global climate governance by establishing a framework that unites countries in a shared commitment to combat climate change. Its emphasis on voluntary contributions fosters a sense of ownership among nations while encouraging progressive action over time. By setting ambitious long-term goals and facilitating financial and technological support for vulnerable countries, the agreement plays a crucial role in steering global efforts toward sustainable development. Ultimately, its success hinges on continuous international collaboration and a willingness to adapt strategies as climate challenges evolve.

Related terms

Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): The climate action plans submitted by each country under the Paris Agreement that outline their intended efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Global Warming: The long-term heating of Earth’s climate system due to human activities, primarily fossil fuel burning, which increases heat-trapping greenhouse gas levels in the atmosphere.

Adaptation: The process of adjusting to current or expected climate change and its effects, aiming to minimize damage and take advantage of any beneficial opportunities.