The Climate Accord
As of 2023, the Paris Climate Accord had 194 countries and the European Union sign an agreement to combat climate change. This includes nearly every member of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The accord went into force on November 4, 2016, after 55 countries, representing at least 55% of global greenhouse gas emissions, ratified the agreement.
The key provisions include limiting global warming to below 2°C. In addition, nations will pursue efforts to limit the increase to 1.5°C, recognizing this would significantly reduce the risks and impacts of global warming.
The agreement requires that each country submits its own climate action plan (Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC)) outlining how it will reduce emissions. These plans are not legally binding, but countries are expected to update and strengthen them every 5 years. Countries must report regularly on emissions and progress toward their NDCs. Every 5 years a composite of all reports will be used to assess collective progress.
Developed countries are expected to provide financial support to developing nations, to help them mitigate and adapt to climate change. The goal is to mobilize $100 billion for this purpose annually by 2025.
