Climate Action and the Kyoto Protocol

Introduction to the Kyoto Protocol

• An agreement linked to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
• Commits parties to setting internationally binding emission reduction targets.
• Adopted in December 1997; active since February 2005.

Focus and Responsibilities

• Stricter policies for developed nations due to their significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions.
• Recognizes that developed countries are primarily responsible for high levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Participating Countries

• Total of 192 countries have signed the agreement.
• Notable signatories include:
  • Australia
  • China
  • Russia
  • Japan
  • Every nation in the European Union
• Developed countries not signed include:
  • The United States
  • Afghanistan

Objectives and Benefits

• Main objective: Reduce harmful chemicals in the atmosphere.
• Benefits of the protocol outweigh the negatives despite a few non-signatory countries.

Mechanisms of the Kyoto Protocol

• Establishes a structure of rolling emission reduction commitment periods.
• Key principles include:
  • Minimizing impacts on developing countries via an adaptation fund for climate change.
  • Legally binding commitments for emission reductions.
  • Establishment of a compliance committee to enforce commitments.

Conclusion

• The Kyoto Protocol is a significant step in the global fight against climate change.