On December 12, 2015, the 21st United Nations Conference of Parties concluded with an historic agreement to prevent the most catastrophic impacts of climate change through mitigation and adaptation. As the first “truly universal agreement on climate change,” the Paris Agreement could prove to be the catalyst for an ever-growing global commitment to climate action.
The Paris Agreement is a landmark moment in the global climate movement. Countries accounting for 90% of emissions have committed to reductions goals and laid out plans in support of this effort. The process is ongoing, requiring countries to set increasingly aggressive targets and assess progress. The dynamic nature of the plan is cause for hope. A steadily rising bar in conjunction with a framework for transparency and accountability could result in meaningful progress.
Notably, the Agreement is truly global, with countries from across the development spectrum contributing. The universality of the effort reflects the magnitude of climate change impacts across geographies and populations.
Unfortunately, some issues remain inadequately addressed. The Agreement limits temperature rise to 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels with the more stringent 1.5C limit as merely a goal. Yet, 2C is the tipping point and could spell ruin for the countries most vulnerable to climate change, notably small island states. Significantly, the reduction plans are insufficient to meet even the 2C commitment.
Climate finance has been a sticking point throughout the COP21, with developing countries urging their industrialized counterparts to contribute at least $100 billion per year in support of mitigation and adaptation. Despite bearing minimal responsibility for climate change, many developing countries suffer the most severe impacts. Climate finance would help poorer countries build resilience and reduce emissions. Although the Agreement contains a reference to $100 billion in financing, it is non-binding.
The Paris Agreement represents the collective mustering of resources required to combat an unparalleled threat to the planet and humanity. Although lacking in some respects, the Agreement could serve as a jumping-off point for greater progress. With a blueprint for action, measurable results depend on global political will, mutual pressure to fulfill promises, and the sustained momentum of grassroots organizations. The hard work of transforming the Paris Agreement into reality has only just begun.
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