Climate Change Agreements: Kyoto Protocol and Paris Agreement

Introduction to the Kyoto Protocol and Paris Agreement

1.1. Kyoto Protocol

The Kyoto Protocol, the first international agreement representing global efforts against climate change, emerged as a response to the crisis of global warming and climate change. It sets targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions for 37 countries and economies from 2005 to 2012.

1.2. Paris Agreement

Adopted in 2015, the Paris Agreement is an international treaty requiring all UNFCCC member countries to take action against climate change. It outlines a global effort to maintain the temperature increase below 2°C, with efforts to limit it to 1.5°C.

Kyoto Protocol

2.1. Regulations and Goals

Adopted in 1997 under the UNFCCC, the Kyoto Protocol targets greenhouse gas reduction for 37 countries and economies from 2005 to 2012. It regulates national efforts for greenhouse gas reduction through emissions trading and the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM).

Paris Agreement

3.1. Global Objectives

The Paris Agreement involves the participation of all UNFCCC member countries, establishing a global goal to keep the temperature increase below 2°C. Each country is obliged to independently present and regularly update their reduction targets.

3.2. Emphasis on Sustainable Development

Unlike the Kyoto Protocol, the Paris Agreement emphasizes sustainable development for developing countries and encourages all nations to strive for sustainable development. It places emphasis on technology transfer and financial support for low-income countries.

Kyoto Protocol vs. Paris Agreement

4.1. Duration and Target Countries

Kyoto Protocol: Adopted in 1997, targeted 37 countries and economies from 2005 to 2012.

Paris Agreement: Adopted in 2015, ongoing and includes all UNFCCC member countries.

4.2. Form of Objectives

Kyoto Protocol: Specified greenhouse gas reduction targets, introduced emissions trading and CDM.

Paris Agreement: Set global goals and requires each country to independently present and update reduction targets.

4.3. Emphasis on Sustainable Development

Kyoto Protocol: Activated sustainable development through CDM for developing countries.

Paris Agreement: Emphasizes sustainable development for all countries, promoting technology transfer and financial support for low-income countries.

Conclusion

The Kyoto Protocol and Paris Agreement provide crucial frameworks for international climate change response. Understanding their characteristics and differences is essential for paving the way toward a sustainable future.