History of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)

Introduction

• The UNFCCC convenes through the United Nations to discuss global climate issues.
• Objective: Stabilize greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by the year 2000.

Key Milestones and Conferences

1992: Rio Summit

• Formation of initial global climate goals with data from the IPCC.

1995: COP 1

• Berlin Mandate:
  • Developed countries responsible for historic emissions act first.
  • Introduction of 'common but differentiated responsibilities':
    • Developed nations to have mandatory emission limits.
    • Developing nations may have voluntary limits.

1997: COP 3 - Kyoto Protocol

• Target: 5% reduction below 1990 CO2 levels by early 21st century.
• 37 countries + EU committed to binding targets.
• US Withdrawal: Following politics post-election of George W. Bush.

2001: COP 7

• Rules for implementing the Kyoto Protocol developed (excluding the US).

2005: COP 11 - Montreal

• Decision to extend Kyoto beyond 2012.
• Rise of climate change denial due to fossil fuel interests.

2007: COP 13 - Bali Action Plan

• Two-track system:
  • Track 1: Developing countries to take measurable action with support.
  • Track 2: Developed countries to increase cuts beyond 2012.

2009: COP 15 - Copenhagen

• Expected to replace Kyoto Protocol but deemed unsuccessful.
• Economic collapse of 2008 impacted negotiations.
• Climategate Scandal: Created doubt, although later debunked.
• Stalemate: Between BASIC countries (e.g., China, India) and the US.
• US & China had meager reduction commitments based on 2005 levels.
• Positive Outcomes:
  • REDD program: Reducing emissions from deforestation.
  • Establishment of the Green Climate Fund.

2015: COP 21 - Paris Agreement

• Objective:
  • Limit warming below 2°C, aim for 1.5°C.
  • 195 nations agreed (excluding Syria and Nicaragua).
• Commitments:
  • Countries to submit mitigation plans every five years.
  • Wealthy nations to provide $100 billion annually from 2020 onwards.
• Challenges:
  • Emission targets didn't align with temperature goals.
  • US announced intent to withdraw under President Trump's administration.

Conclusion

• The Paris Agreement marked significant progress, yet required further actions to meet emission and temperature goals.
• Continuous iteration and international cooperation remain crucial for future climate agreements.