Climate change is a pressing issue that has garnered global attention in recent years. The effects of climate change are seen in the drastic changes in weather patterns, rising sea levels, and the extinction of species. In response, the international community has come together to create agreements on climate change to mitigate its effects. Below are some of the most important agreements on climate change:
1. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
The UNFCCC was signed in 1992 at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. This agreement was created to address climate change on a global scale. The UNFCCC has over 190 signatories and aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system.
2. The Kyoto Protocol
The Kyoto Protocol was adopted in 1997 as an extension of the UNFCCC. It is a legally binding agreement that requires developed countries to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to below 1990 levels. The Kyoto Protocol has expired, but it served as a model for future agreements.
3. The Paris Agreement
The Paris Agreement was adopted in 2015 and is currently in force. It aims to limit global warming to below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C. It also requires countries to submit and update their nationally determined contributions (NDCs) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
4. The Montreal Protocol
The Montreal Protocol was adopted in 1987 and is a global agreement to protect the ozone layer. It regulates the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances, which contribute to climate change. The Montreal Protocol has been successful in reducing the production of these substances and has contributed to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
5. The Marrakech Partnership for Global Climate Action
The Marrakech Partnership for Global Climate Action was launched at COP22 in 2016. It aims to support and accelerate climate action through partnerships between governments, businesses, and civil society. The partnership focuses on several areas, including renewable energy, sustainable transport, and sustainable land use.
6. The Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy
The Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy is a coalition of mayors and local leaders who are committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the effects of climate change. The covenant has over 10,000 signatories from around the world and aims to promote sustainable and resilient communities.
In conclusion, climate change is a global issue that requires collaborative efforts to mitigate its effects. The agreements on climate change discussed above are some of the most important efforts to address climate change on a global scale. As individuals, we can also play a role in reducing our carbon footprint by adopting sustainable practices in our daily lives.
