Lecture on Climate Change and the UNFCCC

Introduction to Climate Change

• Climate change: A global phenomenon impacting all countries.
• Needs global cooperation for solutions.

United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)

• Definition: A global framework for climate change action.
• Established: Signed in 1992, implemented in 1994, ratified by 197 countries.
• Objective: Stabilization of greenhouse gases to prevent dangerous climate change.

Key Agreements

• Kyoto Protocol
  • An agreement under the UNFCCC.
• Paris Agreement
  • Aim: Limit global warming to below 2°C, strive for 1.5°C.
  • Negotiated at the Conference of the Parties (COP).

Responsibilities and Principles

• Common but Differentiated Responsibilities
  • Differentiates responsibilities based on a country’s emissions and development.
  • Developed nations to support developing ones in sustainable growth.

Achievements and Criticism

• Achievements
  • Paris Agreement as a milestone.
  • Global aim for carbon neutrality by 2050.
• Criticism
  • Rising emissions despite goals.
  • Lack of language on fossil fuel phase-out.
  • Blocking by fossil-fuel dependent economies.

Future Outlook

• Next Steps
  • Importance of speed and political will.
  • Technologies and wealth are available for a transition.
  • COP 29 in 2024 crucial for financial goals and support for less wealthy nations.

Individual Action

• How Individuals Can Contribute
  • Use personal stories to influence leaders.
  • Engage via social media, emails, and conversations.
  • Encourage conversations about climate change at personal levels.

Conclusion

• Importance of continued pressure on leaders.
• Every small action contributes to the broader change needed.
• Engage others to increase awareness and action against climate change.