What Did the US Agree to in the Paris Agreement?

By Alice Nichols

The Paris Agreement is a historic international treaty that was signed in 2015 by 196 nations, including the United States. The agreement aims to combat climate change and its negative impact on the planet. In this article, we will discuss what the US agreed to in the Paris Agreement and how it works.

Background of the Paris Agreement

The Paris Agreement was adopted at the 21st Conference of Parties (COP21) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held in Paris, France. The agreement is based on several principles, including equity, common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, and sustainable development.

What did the US agree to in the Paris Agreement?

The US agreed to several key provisions when it signed onto the Paris Agreement. These include:

  • Greenhouse gas emissions reductions: The US pledged to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 26-28% below its 2005 levels by 2025.
  • Funding for developing countries: The US committed to providing financial assistance to developing countries to help them transition toward clean energy and adapt to climate change impacts. This funding is referred to as “climate finance.”
  • Transparency: The US agreed to report regularly on its emissions levels and progress toward meeting its Targets.

Greenhouse gas emissions reductions

The US’s pledge to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions was a significant commitment under the Paris Agreement. This reduction is critical because greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to global warming and climate change.

To achieve this reduction, the US implemented various policies such as increasing fuel efficiency standards for vehicles and transitioning toward renewable energy sources like wind and solar power.

Funding for developing countries

One of the most critical elements of the Paris Agreement was the commitment to provide climate finance to developing countries. This funding is essential because these countries often lack the resources and technology needed to transition toward clean energy and adapt to climate change impacts.

The US pledged to contribute $3 billion to the Green Climate Fund, which provides financial assistance for climate-related projects in developing countries. This funding helps these countries reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change impacts like sea-level rise and extreme weather events.

Transparency

Transparency is a key element of the Paris Agreement. The US agreed to report regularly on its emissions levels and progress toward meeting its Targets. This reporting helps hold countries accountable for their commitments and ensures that progress is being made toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Conclusion

The Paris Agreement was a significant milestone in international efforts to combat climate change. The US’s involvement in the agreement was critical, given its status as one of the world’s largest emitters of greenhouse gases.

By agreeing to reduce its emissions, provide financial assistance to developing countries, and report regularly on its progress, the US played a crucial role in advancing global efforts to address climate change. Though the US withdrew from the agreement in 2020, it remains an essential framework for international cooperation on climate action.