Why Is It Called the Paris Climate Agreement?

By Michael Ferguson

The Paris Climate Agreement is one of the most significant global agreements in recent history. It was signed by 195 countries in December 2015, with the aim of reducing global greenhouse gas emissions and limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. But why is it called the Paris Climate Agreement?

The Origins of the Paris Climate Agreement

The origins of the Paris Climate Agreement can be traced back to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which was established in 1992. The UNFCCC is an international treaty that aims to prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system.

The Importance of Paris

Paris was chosen as the location for the negotiations that led to the agreement for several reasons. First, France has a long history of environmental activism and leadership on climate change issues. Second, Paris is a city that represents culture, beauty, and sophistication – qualities that were seen as important for creating a positive atmosphere for negotiations.

The Role of Diplomacy

Diplomacy played a crucial role in securing a global agreement on climate change. In the lead-up to the negotiations, France’s then-Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius traveled extensively to build relationships with key players and ensure that all countries were represented at the negotiating table.

The Key Elements of the Paris Climate Agreement

The Paris Climate Agreement is built around several key elements, including:

  • Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): Each country sets its own Targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Transparency and Reporting: Countries are required to report on their progress towards meeting their NDCs.
  • Finance: Developed countries are required to provide financial assistance to developing countries to help them transition to low-carbon economies and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

The Legacy of Paris

The Paris Climate Agreement has been hailed as a historic achievement, representing a global commitment to tackling climate change. The agreement has also helped to mobilize businesses, cities, and civil society to take action on climate change.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Paris Climate Agreement is called as such because it was negotiated and signed in Paris. However, the name itself does not fully capture the significance of this global agreement. The Paris Climate Agreement represents a turning point in the fight against climate change and a renewed commitment by the international community to protect our planet for future generations.