Overview of the Paris Agreement

Established in 2015, the Paris Agreement is an international accord highlighting nations’ shared obligation to address climate change and its negative effects. This agreement not only establishes that every nation must contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions but also outlines the specific needs and capacities of each nation. This global commitment to preserving the planet for future generations embodies a joint effort to move toward a more sustainable future. The Paris Agreement provides a foundation for unity by encouraging nations to work together to take bold measures to create a greener planet. By doing so, it paves the way for a healthier and more sustainable future for all.

The urgency of this action is underscored by one of the key outlined objectives: the long-term temperature goal. This goal aims to reduce the rise in global temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius to prevent the most devastating potential consequences of climate change. In alignment with this goal, countries worldwide have taken steps to cut their greenhouse gas emissions drastically, convert to alternative and renewable energy sources, and adopt environmentally friendly policies across different industries.

Moreover, NDCs, or Nationally Determined Contributions, are a pivotal aspect of the Paris Agreement as these are the regulations that each country commits to follow in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These measures serve as an indication of the effectiveness of global efforts and provide a roadmap for additional actions that need to be taken. For instance, Chile proposed its updated NDC in 2020, which consisted of a new carbon budget, nationwide emission reductions, and initiatives to protect the nation’s coastline. Chile’s changes have amplified global climate change awareness, prompting other nations to take action to meet their own climate goals.

Although the Paris Agreement is a global treaty that is formally carried out through international accords and government initiatives, its objectives can also be achieved through personal efforts. Simple lifestyle changes, such as minimizing waste, choosing environmentally friendly products, and working to increase public knowledge of climate issues, can collectively have a lasting effect.