The Paris Agreement, signed in 2015, is a global agreement aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preventing the most severe impacts of climate change. The agreement was ratified by 197 parties and went into effect on November 4, 2016. However, the work towards achieving the goals outlined in the agreement is ongoing.
The Paris Agreement sets a goal of keeping global temperatures from rising more than 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels, with an aim towards limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit). To achieve this goal, countries are required to submit their own plans outlining how they will reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and work towards a sustainable future. These plans are called Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
The Paris Agreement also established a framework for monitoring and reporting on countries` progress towards their NDCs. This framework includes a global stocktake every five years to assess progress towards achieving the agreement`s goals.
While the Paris Agreement is a significant step forward in the global fight against climate change, there is still a long way to go to achieve its goals. As of 2021, many countries have not yet submitted updated NDCs that reflect the increased ambition needed to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Additionally, there is still much work to be done to transition to a low-carbon economy and reduce emissions from sectors such as transportation and agriculture.
In conclusion, the Paris Agreement has been in effect since November 4, 2016. However, the work towards achieving its goals is ongoing, and countries must continue to submit ambitious NDCs and take bold action to mitigate the impacts of climate change. As individuals, we can also do our part by reducing our carbon footprint and advocating for policies that prioritize sustainability.