Nine Years On, Paris Agreement Faces Growing Frustration

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 The Paris Agreement, nine years after its adoption, faces increasing challenges. Rising global emissions, unmet climate finance commitments, and a potential US exit have led to frustration, prompting calls for stronger climate action and clearer obligations.

Nine Years On, Paris Agreement Faces Growing Frustration

Nine Years After Paris Agreement: Growing Challenges:

  • The Paris Agreement, finalized on December 12, 2015, was designed to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
  • Over the past nine years, global emissions have increased by 8%, reaching 53 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent.
  • Global temperatures have risen by 1.45°C, with 2024 expected to breach the 1.5°C threshold.
  • The goal of holding temperature rise within 1.5°C seems increasingly unattainable.

Frustration Among Developing Countries and Emerging Alternatives

  • Small island nations and other developing countries, frustrated with the Paris Agreement’s progress, are exploring alternative approaches.
  • The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is hearing a case to define countries’ climate obligations.
  • Countries argue for stronger commitments to address climate change, as the current framework lacks enforceable accountability.

Weakening of the Paris Agreement and Dwindling Trust

  • The Paris Agreement diluted the commitments of developed nations by mandating “nationally determined contributions” rather than setting binding targets, unlike the Kyoto Protocol.
  • In 2023, developed nations agreed to raise climate financing to $300 billion by 2035, far less than the $100 billion annually promised.
  • Trust in the agreement is eroding, particularly as the US may withdraw again under future leadership.
  • Vanuatu and other nations have pushed for an ICJ resolution to clarify countries’ climate obligations in light of international laws.

Paris Agreement on Climate Change:

  • Legally Binding: Adopted in 2015 under the UNFCCC at COP21.
  • Goal: Limit global warming to well below 2°C, aiming for 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
  • Replaced Kyoto Protocol: Aims for a more inclusive and flexible approach.
  • Collaboration: Encourages countries to reduce emissions, adapt to climate impacts, and support developing nations.
  • Under the Paris Agreement, countries must update their climate action plans (NDCs) every five years. Article 6 enables voluntary cooperation through carbon markets and non-market approaches, allowing emission trading and promoting technology transfer. It ensures transparency, boosts ambition and supports developing nations like India in achieving low-carbon, sustainable development goals.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times