From UNFCCC to Paris Agreement: A Journey Towards a Sustainable Future

 Over the years, numerous climate agreements have been established worldwide with the aim of addressing the pressing issue of climate change. Here are some notable agreements and their expected mechanisms:

1. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) - Adopted in 1992, it aimed to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations. It established the principle of "common but differentiated responsibilities," recognizing that developed countries should take the lead due to their historical emissions.

2. Kyoto Protocol (1997) - Designed as an extension of the UNFCCC, it set binding emission reduction targets for developed nations. However, the protocol's effectiveness was limited as major emitters like the United States did not ratify it, and emerging economies like China and India were not subject to emission restrictions.

3. Paris Agreement (2015) - This landmark agreement sought to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. It emphasized voluntary national contributions known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), with regular review processes to enhance ambition. However, the Paris Agreement faces challenges in implementation due to the lack of binding commitments and the withdrawal of some countries, including the United States during the previous administration.

Despite the efforts made, these agreements have faced obstacles such as diverging national interests, inadequate enforcement mechanisms, and geopolitical tensions. However, they have also played a crucial role in raising awareness, fostering international cooperation, and encouraging climate action at various levels. Future agreements must strive to address these limitations and ensure collective action for a sustainable and resilient planet.