Climate related agreements are crucial in addressing the devastating effects of climate change. These agreements are international, regional, national, or local agreements made between different parties with the aim of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fighting climate change.
One of the most notable climate related agreements is the Paris Agreement, which was adopted in 2015 by 195 countries. The agreement aims to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius. The Paris Agreement requires countries to submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which are plans outlining their efforts to reduce emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change.
Another important climate related agreement is the Kyoto Protocol, which was adopted in 1997. The protocol requires 37 industrialized countries to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 5% below 1990 levels. The Kyoto Protocol has been criticized for not including developing countries, which have a significant role to play in reducing emissions.
Apart from international agreements, there are also regional and local agreements aimed at addressing climate change. An example is the Western Climate Initiative, which is a regional collaboration of U.S. states and Canadian provinces aimed at reducing emissions. The initiative includes a carbon cap and trade system, which places a limit on emissions and allows companies to trade emissions allowances.
In conclusion, climate related agreements are crucial in addressing the impacts of climate change. These agreements provide a framework for countries, regions, and localities to work together towards reducing emissions and adapting to the impacts of climate change. As we continue to face the impacts of climate change, it is essential for more agreements like the Paris Agreement and the Kyoto Protocol to be adopted to ensure a sustainable future for our planet.
