09 Oct The Paris Agreement: What To Know

The Paris Agreement: a name that resonates with hope, unity, and a collective determination to tackle the most pressing challenge of our time – climate change. Adopted in 2015 by an overwhelming majority of nations, numbering 195 nations, this groundbreaking international accord charts a course toward a more sustainable and resilient world.  It stands as a testament to global unity and cooperation in the face of one of the most critical challenges of our time: climate change. This landmark pact is a product of two weeks of deliberation in Paris during the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change’s (UNFCCC) 21st Conference of the Parties (COP 21), signifying a pivotal moment in the fight against climate change.

Of course, the Paris Agreement is a household name in the UK. But how many know what it truly is? This article will provide you with a quick overview of the nitty gritty you might be missing.

Brief History 

At its core, the Paris Agreement is driven by an unwavering commitment to limit the rise in global temperatures within this century. With a resolute focus on restricting the increase to a maximum of 2 degrees Celsius above pre industrial levels, the accord’s preference leans toward an even more ambitious target of 1.5 degrees Celsius. The agreement’s central emphasis on the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide, serves as a strategic cornerstone in our efforts to combat the far-reaching impacts of climate change.

As previously mentioned, the Paris Agreement resulted from the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP 21) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 2015. The origin of the UNFCCC, on the other hand, can be traced back to the significant Rio Earth Summit in 1992. This pivotal event emphasised the need for a global initiative to protect our planet and its inhabitants from the impacts of climate change. From this historic summit, a trio of conventions emerged, with the UNFCCC taking centre stage as the primary tool for international climate action. Over time, nearly every nation worldwide ratified this convention, demonstrating the universal acknowledgment of the importance of coming together to address the shared challenge of climate change.

As the new millennium approached, a growing realisation emerged that more robust measures were necessary to reduce emissions. In 1997, this understanding materialised as the Kyoto Protocol, a groundbreaking agreement that marked a new phase in climate governance. It introduced legally binding targets for emission reductions specifically for developed countries. While the legacy of the Kyoto Protocol had a time limit, it ignited a momentum that matured in preparation for the transformative moment of the Paris Agreement.

Key Elements

Mitigation: Reducing Emissions

Mitigation, a cornerstone of the Paris Agreement, underscores the commitment of governments to curbing climate change through substantial emission reductions. A far-reaching consensus emerged with the agreement’s establishment of a long-term objective: to hold the global average temperature increase well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. This accord is accompanied by a determined aim to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius, a threshold deemed vital for minimising risks and impacts. Acknowledging the varying developmental stages of nations, the agreement accommodates a nuanced approach to emissions peaking – with the recognition that the process will require more time for developing countries. Furthermore, a rapid and science-driven trajectory of emissions reduction is agreed upon, leading to a crucial balance between emissions and removals in the latter half of this century.

Transparency and Global Stocktake

In a spirit of accountability and collective progress, governments commit to regular transparency and global stocktakes. A pivotal provision of the Paris Agreement is the pledge by nations to convene every five years, evaluating collective advancement toward the long-term goals set. These periodic evaluations serve as platforms for information exchange, fostering informed updates and enhancements to nationally determined contributions (NDCs). The transparency extends beyond intergovernmental interactions, as nations undertake to report on their climate action endeavours to the public. By fostering transparency, the agreement kindles a sense of shared responsibility, driving nations to fulfil their commitments effectively.

Adaptation: Strengthening Resilience

The Paris Agreement’s comprehensive outlook extends to adaptation, acknowledging that climate change impacts are inevitable. Countries collectively commit to enhancing societies’ ability to manage these effects. Equally noteworthy is the agreement’s commitment to providing global assistance for adaptation initiatives in less developed nations. Through fortifying resilience and improving adaptation capacities, the accord lays the groundwork for countries to effectively tackle the difficulties presented by shifting climatic circumstances.

Loss and Damage: Addressing Irreversible Impact

Embedded within the Paris Agreement is an understanding of the potential loss and damage associated with the adverse effects of climate change. Nations recognize the importance of averting, minimising, and addressing these impacts. This recognition is accompanied by a commitment to cooperative efforts, aiming to enhance understanding, action, and support. The agreement envisions multifaceted cooperation in areas such as early warning systems, emergency preparedness, and risk insurance, equipping nations to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Role of Cities, Regions, and Local Authorities

The Paris Agreement’s embrace of collective responsibility extends beyond national governments. Recognizing the role of non-Party stakeholders, including cities, subnational authorities, civil society, and the private sector, the agreement empowers these entities to contribute meaningfully. The platform invites them to scale up their emission reduction efforts, while concurrently fostering resilience and reducing vulnerability to the adverse effects of climate change. By upholding regional and international cooperation, these stakeholders amplify the agreement’s impact and ensure a more comprehensive approach to climate action.

Support: Collective Commitment

Underscoring the principles of solidarity and global collaboration, the Paris Agreement’s support provisions reinforce the commitment to a more equitable and sustainable world. Developed countries pledged to continue supporting climate action in developing countries. This includes reducing emissions and enhancing resilience against climate change impacts. The agreement not only encourages other nations to voluntarily contribute but also sets forth a tangible goal: a collective mobilisation of USD 100 billion per year by 2020, extended until 2025. Anticipating a future of heightened ambitions, the agreement positions itself as a dynamic force in the ongoing fight against climate change

How Does the Paris Agreement Function?

Enhanced Transparency Framework

At the core of the Paris Agreement lies the adoption of an improved transparency framework, frequently denoted as the ETF. This framework provides clear directives for nations concerning the reporting of their greenhouse gas emissions, advancements made toward their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change and adapt to them, the aid extended and mobilised, as well as the assistance required and received. Set to be initiated in 2024, the ETF will introduce an efficient mechanism enabling countries to openly communicate their strides in reducing emissions and executing targeted measures to combat climate change

Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)

Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) are individual commitments made by countries within the Paris Agreement framework. These pledges detail actions that countries will take to contribute to the global goal of limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C, including adapting to climate impacts and securing necessary financing. NDCs vary by country, reflecting unique circumstances and priorities, and collectively represent a global effort to address climate change. Each country’s NDC is expected to reflect its unique circumstances, capabilities, and development priorities, while also aligning with the overall Paris Pact goal (keeping global temperature rise well below 2 degrees Celsius, with an ambition to limit it to 1.5 degrees Celsius).

The NDCs conventionally encompass elements such as setting targets for emission reduction, outlining strategies for mitigation, elaborating on plans for adaptation (which can include constructing resilient infrastructure, enhancing disaster preparedness, and safeguarding vulnerable communities), addressing financial, supportive, and capacity-building measures, and instituting comprehensive monitoring and reporting mechanisms. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the Paris Agreement stands as a monumental step towards global climate action, it is not without its challenges. Meeting the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) outlined within the agreement, providing sufficient financial support to developing nations, and addressing the mounting impacts of climate change all pose significant hurdles. However, these challenges also underscore the urgent need for unwavering commitment, heightened ambition, and innovative solutions. As the world rallies behind the shared objective of limiting global temperature rise and fostering a more sustainable future, collaboration, adaptability, and persistent dedication will remain the driving forces in realising the promises and potential of the Paris Agreement.