By Yuv Sungkur, Mauritian Climate Advocate.
In December 2015, the world witnessed a historic moment when nearly every country in the world came together to sign the Paris Agreement. This landmark global accord aimed to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time – combating climate change.
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The Paris Agreement Explained
Addressing climate change is a collective responsibility that demands action from everyone, and at every scale. Whether individuals, governments, businesses, or civil society, climate change will not be resolved without collective effort. To walk in the same direction – rules and goals must be laid out. This is exactly what the Paris Agreement represents.
The Paris Agreement is an international treaty adopted by 195 parties (out of 198) during the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP 21) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). It is the first-ever universal, legally binding global climate change agreement. In simple terms, the Paris Agreement is the legal proof of the world deciding and agreeing upon the rules and goals to fight climate change.
At the heart of this groundbreaking accord lies an ambitious goal – limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius and pursuing efforts to limit it to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. It also aims to strengthen countries’ ability to deal with the impacts of climate change and support them in their efforts.
What does the Paris Agreement entail?
- Tailored Goals for Each Nation:
In recognizing the diversity of challenges each country faces, the Paris Agreement offers a customized approach. Under this agreement, each nation crafts its unique plan of action termed as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). These NDCs outline strategies for curbing emissions of greenhouse gases – the culprits behind the greenhouse effect. Whether it involves transitioning to renewable energy, afforestation, or elevating energy efficiency, NDCs serve as tailored blueprints for climate action.
- Championing the Vulnerable and Sharing Responsibilities
Imagine being part of a group project – you’d offer help to those who might be struggling, right? The Paris Agreement encapsulates this ethos. It acknowledges that certain nations are more vulnerable to climate change’s repercussions, despite their minimal contribution to the issue. As a testament to global solidarity, developed countries commit to financially and technologically aiding developing nations, enabling them to adopt sustainable practices and adapt to the changing climate.
- Financial Backing and Technology Transfer:
Shifting from fossil fuels to cleaner energy alternatives can be economically demanding. This is where financial backing enters the equation. Developed nations are stepping up to financially bolster projects in developing countries. This empowers these nations to transition toward sustainable practices without straining their economies. Additionally, technology transfer fosters the exchange of advanced green technologies, ensuring that progress is universally accessible. Developed countries pledged to provide financial and technological support to developing countries of 100 billion USD annually by 2020 to help them take climate action and adapt to the changing climate.
- Continuous Evaluation for Progressive Action:
Think of the Paris Agreement as a roadmap punctuated by regular checkpoints. Every five years, participating countries convene to evaluate progress. Are temperature benchmarks being met? Are NDCs yielding results? If not, a recalibration of strategies becomes imperative. This periodic review process instills accountability and propels collective efforts toward fulfilling commitments.
Why is everyone talking about 1.5 degrees?
In the battle against climate change, the Paris Agreement stands tall as a beacon of hope, representing a global commitment to address the pressing issue of rising temperatures and its far-reaching consequences. While the Agreement agrees into limiting global warming to well under 2°C – the limit to actually target is 1.5°C.
Limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels offers a significantly better chance at avoiding climate change’s most severe and irreversible impacts. The difference of half a degree might seem small, but it can make a substantial difference in the intensity and frequency of extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and disruptions to ecosystems.
Limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius:
l Increases the chances of preserving coral reefs, which are vital for marine biodiversity and coastal protection, especially for Mauritius.
Provides a greater chance of survival and adaptation for vulnerable populations, especially populations from small island states.
l Helps mitigate the risk of severe disruptions to crop yields and water availability, reducing the potential for food crises and hunger.
l Diminishes the risks of health pandemics and diseases spreadings like Malaria and Dengue.
As of where the world is currently situated, it doesn’t look promising. According to NASA’s latest statistics, as of 2023, the world is currently at 1.2 Degrees Celsius since pre-Industrial times, and the 1.5 mark is expected to be reached within the next few decades, well before 2050. Considering this, could we consider the failure of the Paris Agreement?
Eight years later, are we currently holding onto our promises?
Eight years have passed since the signing of the Paris Agreement. We are now closer to 2030 than 2015, so results must come through.
Since the agreement’s inception, we cannot ignore that there have been notable strides in various quarters. Many nations have taken significant steps to transition towards renewable energy sources, revamp energy efficiency measures, and invest in sustainable technologies. The growing prevalence of electric vehicles, the expansion of solar and wind energy installations, and increased public awareness about carbon footprints are all signs of positive change.
Internationally, several countries have also strengthened their climate policies, indicating an increased ambition to curb emissions. Furthermore, multilateral initiatives, the increased number of regional projects, technological advancements, and a burgeoning global consciousness about environmental sustainability have contributed to shaping a more hopeful narrative.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that the journey towards fulfilling the promises of the Paris Agreement has not been without its challenges and shortcomings. Emission reduction efforts have been uneven across nations, with China and India struggling to meet their commitments due to economic constraints or political hurdles. The specter of climate denial in some parts of the world – like Trump’s election as president of the United States – has impeded the necessary policy changes and international cooperation required to address this urgent crisis.
Additionally, despite the agreement’s emphasis on financial support for developing nations, progress in this arena has been slower than desired. The commitment to mobilize $100 billion annually to aid these nations in their climate adaptation and mitigation efforts by 2020 has faced multiple hurdles and delays. Financial aid has not been delivered as promised.
Looking ahead: The urgency of action
Eight years after the Paris Agreement, we find ourselves at a crossroads. As we stand at this juncture, the urgency of the climate crisis cannot be overstated. No later than last week, I was informed of droughts in the Panama Canal, wildfires from Canada to Maui, and a hurricane in California. The effects of global warming are becoming increasingly evident.
While commendable strides have been taken, they are still insufficient to keep the temperature rise in check. With the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) around the corner, the world has an opportunity to renew its commitment, strengthen cooperation, and raise ambition to unprecedented levels. Meaningful policy changes, sustainable investments, and a deepened sense of shared responsibility are vital in fulfilling the promises of the Paris Agreement.
Our promises back then were not mere rhetoric; they were a collective call to safeguard our planet for present and future generations. While progress has been made, there is much ground to cover. The time for complacency has passed. We have the car, we have the motor, we even have the finish line – we only need our driver to step on the accelerator.
