What is the significance of the Paris Agreement?

The significance of the Paris Agreement lies in its role as an international accord that aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with efforts to keep the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius. This landmark agreement, adopted in 2015, represents a collective commitment from countries around the world to address climate change, recognizing the need for urgent action given the impacts of rising global temperatures.

By providing a framework for nations to set and achieve their own climate targets, the Paris Agreement encourages accountability and the sharing of best practices in emissions reduction. Countries submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) outlining their plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which are intended to be progressively more ambitious over time, fostering a spirit of collaboration among nations to tackle the global climate crisis effectively.

This agreement signifies a pivotal moment in global climate diplomacy where nations collectively acknowledge the need for immediate and sustained action to mitigate the effects of climate change, protect natural ecosystems, and support sustainable development.