Why the Paris Agreement is historic and why December 12, 2015 will remain a milestone for the planet?
The awareness was there, the scientific consensus unanimous: our planet’s atmosphere is warming due to greenhouse gas emissions produced by human activity. The Paris conference, held from November 30 to December 12 at the Paris-Le Bourget site, was intended to provide a response to this phenomenon, which is jeopardizing the future of human presence in certain parts of the planet.
Limit temperature rise to below 2 degrees Celsius
This agreement marks a turning point towards a new world. It confirms the objective of keeping the temperature increase below 2°C. Scientists consider that there are major risks above this temperature. For the first time, the agreement even sets a target of 1.5°C, in order to safeguard the island states most at risk from rising sea levels.
How can we limit global warming?
186 countries (as of December 12, 2015) have published their action plans during 2015: each of these plans details how countries plan to lower their greenhouse gas emissions. The United Nations climate change organization (the UNFCCC*) assessed these contributions on November 1, 2015. This study showed that, despite the unprecedented mobilization undertaken by the States, global warming was still likely to be between 2.7 and 3 degrees, i.e. above the threshold set by scientists. Find out more.
Furthermore, emissions will have to peak as soon as possible, and countries will aim to achieve “emissions neutrality” in the2nd half of the century. This is a real turning point. We’ll be gradually moving away from the most polluting fossil fuels to achieve this goal.
*UNFCCC: United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
What other means are available to governments to limit the rise in temperatures?
The agreement recognizes that $100 billion (in loans and grants) must be allocated each year from 2020 onwards to finance projects enabling countries to adapt to climate change (rising sea levels, drought, etc.) or reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This funding is set to increase, as specified in the agreement. Certain developing countries, on a voluntary basis, will also be able to become donors to help the poorest countries. This is a new feature. In 2025, the agreement provides for a first rendezvous to make new quantified commitments for aid to the poorest countries.
Are all countries equally responsible forfor global warming?
One of the main principles of the climate negotiations is to recognize that, in the face of climate change, countries have a shared but differentiated responsibility, depending in particular on their level of wealth. With regard to financing, the agreement sets out an obligation for industrialized countries to finance climate-related aid to poor countries, while developing countries are invited to contribute on a voluntary basis. In terms of transparency, a system for monitoring commitments – stronger than before, and with flexibilities for developing countries – has also been instituted to keep track of individual efforts.
And it’s not just governments that can help protect our climate…
For the first time, Le Bourget will host the “Action Week” (LPAA*), enabling local authorities, businesses and banks to mobilize in the fight against global warming. This is one of the major turning points our world is experiencing. The Paris Agreement proposes the continuation of the Lima-Paris Action Plan to further mobilize these players. Two “champions” will be designated from among these players by the two successive presidencies of the COP (France and Morocco) to continue to encourage players to act.
When does this agreement come into force?
The agreement will be opened for signature in New York on April 22. A double criterion for the agreement to come into force: 55 countries / 55% of emissions must have ratified the agreement.