The Paris Climate Change Agreement is an international treaty adopted in 2015 at the United Nations Climate Change Conference. It aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with an aspiration to limit it to 1.5 degrees Celsius by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. But how does the Paris Climate Change Agreement work, and what actions are being taken to achieve its objectives?

The Paris Agreement is a legally binding treaty that requires countries to commit to reducing their greenhouse gas emissions. Each country sets its own target, or “nationally determined contributions (NDCs)”, and is required to report on its progress towards meeting this target. The NDCs are not fixed and can be adjusted over time. This flexibility means that countries can increase their ambition as their circumstances and capabilities change. The Paris Agreement also requires developed countries to provide financial and technological support to developing countries to assist in their transition to a low-carbon economy.

To ensure transparency and accountability, the Paris Agreement established a system of reporting and review. Each country is required to submit regular reports on its progress towards meeting its NDC, including updates on its emissions inventory, mitigation actions, and support provided and received. The reports are reviewed by an expert panel, which provides feedback and recommendations to help countries improve their performance.

Another important aspect of the Paris Agreement is its recognition of the importance of adaptation to the impacts of climate change. The treaty calls for countries to enhance their ability to adapt to the impacts of climate change, and to take actions to build resilience to these impacts. This includes developing and implementing adaptation plans, and providing support to developing countries to assist them in their adaptation efforts.

The Paris Agreement also recognizes the importance of international cooperation in achieving its objectives. It calls for countries to work together to enhance their climate action and to support each other’s efforts. This includes cooperation on technology development and transfer, capacity building, and financial support.

Overall, the Paris Climate Change Agreement is an important global treaty that seeks to address the urgent threat of climate change. It outlines a framework for international cooperation and action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit global warming. While progress towards meeting the objectives of the treaty has been slow, there are signs of positive developments, including the increasing use of renewable energy sources and the growing momentum towards a low-carbon economy. It is hoped that continued efforts and cooperation will lead to a more sustainable future for our planet.