COP21

Definition

COP21, or the 21st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), was a landmark global climate conference held in Paris in 2015. It aimed to bring nations together to negotiate a universal agreement to combat climate change and limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, with efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. COP21 took place from November 30 to December 12, 2015, and was attended by representatives from nearly 200 countries, making it one of the largest climate conferences in history.
2. The conference resulted in the Paris Agreement, which was adopted on December 12, 2015, and marked a significant turning point in international climate policy.
3. Countries agreed to review and enhance their NDCs every five years, reflecting an ongoing commitment to progressively increase efforts to tackle climate change.
4. COP21 emphasized the importance of financial support for developing countries, with the goal of mobilizing $100 billion per year by 2020 to help them address climate change impacts.
5. The conference also included a strong focus on the role of non-state actors, such as cities, businesses, and civil society, in contributing to climate action and sustainable development.

Review Questions

• How did COP21 shape the future of international climate negotiations?
  • COP21 was a pivotal moment in international climate negotiations as it established a comprehensive framework for global climate action through the Paris Agreement. The agreement created a platform where nations committed to limiting global warming and set ambitious targets through their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). This laid the groundwork for ongoing collaboration among countries and enhanced accountability in addressing climate change.
• What were the key outcomes of COP21 regarding financial commitments for developing countries?
  • One of the major outcomes of COP21 was the commitment by developed countries to mobilize $100 billion per year by 2020 for developing nations. This funding is intended to assist these countries in mitigating climate change impacts and transitioning towards sustainable practices. The establishment of mechanisms like the Green Climate Fund during COP21 underscores this commitment, aiming to provide vital resources for adaptation and resilience-building efforts.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of COP21 in achieving its goals and how it has influenced subsequent climate actions globally.
  • COP21's effectiveness can be seen in its successful establishment of the Paris Agreement, which has been ratified by nearly all countries globally. By setting long-term temperature goals and requiring countries to submit NDCs, it created a system of accountability and ambition. However, ongoing challenges remain, such as ensuring that commitments are met and addressing emissions effectively. The influence of COP21 can be observed in subsequent conferences that continue to build on its framework, pushing for enhanced ambition and collaborative efforts among nations.

Related terms

Paris Agreement: The legally binding international treaty that emerged from COP21, which commits countries to take action towards limiting global temperature rise and enhancing climate resilience.

Green Climate Fund: A fund established to support developing countries in their efforts to respond to climate change and transition to low-emission and climate-resilient development.

Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): The climate action plans that each country submits as part of the Paris Agreement, outlining their targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate impacts.