A global commitment to combat climate change
The Paris Accord, formally known as the Paris Agreement, is a landmark international treaty adopted on December 12, 2015, at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris, France. The agreement brought together 195 countries with the shared goal of combating climate change and its devastating effects. It marked a pivotal moment in global climate diplomacy, as nations collectively acknowledged the urgent need to limit global warming and protect the planet for future generations.
The Paris Accord aims to limit the global average temperature rise to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, with efforts to cap it at 1.5°C. Achieving this ambitious target requires significant reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The agreement recognises that current global warming trends, if unchecked, could result in catastrophic consequences such as rising sea levels, extreme weather events and irreversible damage to ecosystems.
To this end, the accord establishes a framework for countries to submit nationally determined contributions (NDCs), which outline their plans to reduce emissions and adapt to climate change impacts. These NDCs are revised every five years, with the expectation that countries will enhance their commitments over time.
The Paris Agreement emphasises the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities”, acknowledging that developed nations bear a greater historical responsibility for greenhouse gas emissions. As such, they are expected to take the lead in reducing emissions and providing financial support to developing countries.
Developing nations, in turn, are encouraged to adopt sustainable practices and enhance their capacity to combat climate change. Financial assistance, technology transfer and capacity-building are critical components to help these countries transition to low-carbon economies.
A crucial aspect of the Paris Accord is the commitment to mobilise $100 billion annually from developed countries to support climate action in developing nations. This funding is essential for implementing mitigation and adaptation measures, such as renewable energy projects, infrastructure development and disaster preparedness initiatives.
The Paris Agreement’s success lies in its nearly universal participation. Countries from every corner of the globe have committed to addressing climate change, signalling unprecedented global unity. However, challenges remain.
Some nations have struggled to meet their NDC targets due to economic constraints or political resistance. Additionally, the withdrawal of the US from the agreement in 2020 (and subsequent rejoining in 2021) highlighted the fragility of global commitments in the face of changing political landscapes.
As climate change continues to pose a significant threat, the Paris Accord serves as a crucial framework for international cooperation. Its success depends on collective ability of the nations to translate pledges into action, reduce emissions and adapt to a changing climate.
As the world faces intensifying climate impacts, the Paris Accord remains a beacon of hope, demonstrating that global cooperation is possible in the fight against one of humanity’s greatest challenges.
The true measure of the Paris Agreement’s success will lie in its implementation and the tangible steps countries take to secure a sustainable future for the planet.
