paris climate treaty

The Paris Climate Treaty, also known as the Paris Agreement, is a landmark international accord adopted by 196 parties at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris on December 12, 2015
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. Its primary goal is to limit global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, with an aspirational target of 1.5°C
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. This treaty represents a significant milestone in global efforts to combat climate change and its devastating impacts
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The Paris Agreement works on a five-year cycle of increasingly ambitious climate action
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. Each country is required to submit its climate action plans, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which outline their commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate impacts
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. These NDCs are meant to be updated every five years, reflecting higher levels of ambition over time
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One of the key features of the Paris Agreement is its emphasis on financial support for developing nations
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. Developed countries are encouraged to provide financial assistance to help developing nations implement sustainable practices and adapt to climate change
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. This financial support is crucial for ensuring that all countries can contribute to the global effort to mitigate climate change.
Despite its ambitious goals, the Paris Agreement has faced challenges and setbacks
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. The United States, one of the world’s largest emitters of greenhouse gases, withdrew from the agreement under the Trump administration in 2017, only to rejoin in 2021 under President Joe Biden
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. However, the U.S. withdrew again in 2025, raising concerns about the impact on global climate efforts
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The Paris Agreement also emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability
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. Countries are required to regularly report on their emissions and progress towards their NDCs, allowing for a clear assessment of global efforts to combat climate change
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. This transparency is essential for building trust and ensuring that all countries are held accountable for their commitments.
In recent years, the urgency of addressing climate change has become increasingly apparent
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. The world has already experienced the effects of rising global temperatures, including more frequent and severe weather events such as wildfires, hurricanes