What international agreements or initiatives exist to address the challenges posed by the greenhouse effect and climate change?
Several international agreements and initiatives exist to address the challenges posed by the greenhouse effect and climate change. The most notable among them is the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which serves as a framework for global cooperation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Under the UNFCCC, the Kyoto Protocol was adopted in 1997 to establish binding emission reduction targets for developed countries. The Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015, is another crucial initiative aimed at limiting global warming well below 2 degrees Celsius and striving for 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
Long answer
Internationally, efforts to address the challenges posed by the greenhouse effect and climate change have resulted in significant agreements and initiatives. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), established in 1992, is a key global agreement that aims to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that prevents dangerous human interference with the climate system. It provides an overarching framework within which nations work together towards sustainable development while striving to reduce emissions.
The most notable agreement under the UNFCCC is the Kyoto Protocol, which was adopted in 1997 and has been ratified by numerous countries around the world. The Kyoto Protocol set legally binding emission reduction targets for developed countries (known as Annex I Parties) for a specific commitment period from 2008-2012. It introduced market-based mechanisms like emissions trading and Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) to assist countries in meeting their targets while promoting sustainable development.
In recent years, there has been an increased focus on more comprehensive and ambitious global action to combat climate change. The Paris Agreement, adopted at COP21 in 2015, marked a significant milestone in international efforts. Unlike its predecessor, it involves all countries - both developed and developing - making nationally determined contributions (NDCs) towards mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.
The Paris Agreement aims to limit the increase in global average temperature to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, while also striving for a temperature rise of 1.5 degrees Celsius. It emphasizes enhanced adaptation, support for developing countries, transparency and accountability in reporting emissions, and financial mechanisms to mobilize climate finance.
Numerous other initiatives complement these international agreements. For instance, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) serves as the leading scientific body providing assessments and recommendations on climate change. The Green Climate Fund (GCF) was established to provide financial assistance to developing countries in adopting low-emission and climate-resilient strategies.
Regional efforts such as the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) and numerous bilateral agreements between countries also contribute to addressing climate change challenges. Additionally, stakeholders from various sectors, including businesses, civil society organizations, and cities, have taken initiative through platforms like the We Mean Business coalition and C40 Cities network.
While these agreements and initiatives represent critical steps towards combating climate change, it remains an ongoing challenge to ensure their effective implementation and achieve the necessary global emission reductions required for a sustainable future.