The Paris Agreement is an international agreement that aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit the rise in global temperatures to below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. It was signed by 197 countries in 2015, making it one of the largest collective efforts to combat climate change in history.
The Paris Agreement was adopted during the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Paris, France. The agreement sets out a framework for countries to work towards reducing their emissions and adapting to the impacts of climate change.
Under the Paris Agreement, countries are required to submit their own nationally determined contributions (NDCs) outlining their goals for reducing emissions. Each NDC is unique to the country, taking into account its specific circumstances and capabilities. The NDCs are expected to be updated and strengthened every five years to reflect the progress made by each country.
The Paris Agreement also created a mechanism for countries to assist each other in meeting their climate goals. Developed countries are expected to provide financial and technological support to developing countries to help them transition to low-carbon economies and adapt to the impacts of climate change.
The Paris Agreement has been praised as a landmark achievement in the fight against climate change. However, it is not without its critics. Some argue that the agreement does not go far enough in requiring countries to reduce their emissions, while others question the effectiveness of the voluntary nature of the NDCs.
Despite these criticisms, the Paris Agreement remains the most comprehensive international effort to tackle climate change to date. Over 190 countries have now ratified the agreement, reaffirming their commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the planet for future generations.
