What Is NDC in Paris Agreement?

By Michael Ferguson

The Paris Agreement is an international treaty adopted in 2015 by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to combat climate change. The agreement aims to limit global warming to below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C.

One of the significant components of the Paris Agreement is the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). In this article, we will discuss what NDCs are and their significance in achieving the Targets set by the Paris Agreement.

What are Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)?

Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) are a set of climate actions that each country pledges to undertake under the Paris Agreement. Each country is responsible for determining its NDCs, considering its domestic circumstances, capabilities, and objectives. The NDCs submitted by countries must reflect their highest possible ambition in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Why are NDCs important?

The significance of NDCs lies in their contribution to achieving the global climate Target set by the Paris Agreement. The combined efforts of all countries’ NDCs will aid in limiting global warming and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, NDCs provide transparency and accountability on each country’s actions towards mitigating climate change.

What do NDCs include?

Each country’s NDC contains a set of Targets and measures that outline how they intend to contribute towards mitigating climate change. These Targets may include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing renewable energy usage, enhancing energy efficiency measures, or adapting to climate impacts.

How often can countries update their NDC?

Countries can update their NDC every five years with more ambitious Targets and measures than previously submitted. The first round of updating was due in 2020; however, many countries have missed this deadline due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusion

In conclusion, NDCs are an essential component of the Paris Agreement, and each country’s efforts towards mitigating climate change. By setting their NDCs, countries take responsibility for combating climate change and contribute towards achieving the global climate Target set by the Paris Agreement. As individuals, we can also play a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions by adopting sustainable practices in our daily lives.