What Are The Key Differences Between Paris Agreement and Kyoto Protocol?

The Paris Agreement and the Kyoto Protocol are two key international treaties to combat climate change. While both aim to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and mitigate climate change impacts, they differ significantly in scope, approach and implementation.

Let’s dive into their details and explore how they are shaping global efforts to combat climate change, focusing on India’s role and interests.

What is the Paris Agreement?

The Paris Agreement is a legally binding international treaty adopted by 196 parties at the 21st Conference of the Parties held in Paris, France, on December 12, 2015, and entered into force on November 4, 2016.

The main goals of the Paris Agreement

  • Limit global warming: Limit global temperature rise to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, with a target of 1.5°C.
  • Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Reduction: Greenhouse gas emissions must peak before 2025 and fall by 43% by 2030.
  • Long-term strategy: Countries are encouraged to adopt low-emission development pathways through non-mandatory long-term low-emission development strategies (LT-LEDS).

How does it work?

The agreement runs on a five-year cycle, with countries submitting their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), reflecting progressive climate action. These Nationally Determined Contributions outline national plans to reduce emissions and adapt to climate impacts.

Source: UNFCCC

What is the Kyoto Protocol?

The Kyoto Protocol, adopted on December 11, 1997, enables the implementation of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) by setting legally binding greenhouse gas emission reduction targets for developed countries. These measures will come into effect on February 16, 2005.

Key Highlights of the Kyoto Protocol

  • Emission reduction goals:

    • First commitment period (2008-2012): 37 industrialized countries committed to reducing emissions to 5% below 1990 levels.
    • Second commitment period during the Doha Amendment (2013-2020): The target is revised to a reduction of at least 18% below 1990 levels.

Source: United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

  • Flexible market mechanism:

    • international emissions trading
    • Clean Development Mechanism (CDM)
    • Joint Implementation (JI)
  • Adaptation Fund:

Established to finance climate adaptation projects in developing countries.

Paris Agreement vs. Kyoto Protocol: Key Differences

feature

Paris Agreement

Kyoto Protocol

Year of adoption

2015

1997

focus

global engagement

Focus on developed countries

Emissions targets

Not binding on all countries

Legally binding on developed countries

method

long term sustainable strategy

Short-term emission reduction commitments

mechanism

NDC, LT-LED

CDM, JI, emissions trading

Adapt to key points

High, including technology transfer

Medium, supported by the Adaptation Fund

Source: CareaboutClimate

India’s role in global climate change

What is India’s stance on the Paris Agreement?

  • Committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
  • There is a focus on renewable energy expansion, with a target of 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030.
  • Prioritize adaptation through policies such as the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC).

Source: X.com/BJP

What is India’s position on the Kyoto Protocol?

  • Benefit from Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) funding for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects.
  • Attract investment and technology transfer through clean development mechanism projects to stimulate green growth.

What are the main benefits of the Kyoto Protocol to India?

  1. Access climate finance: Support from global funds such as the Green Climate Fund and the Adaptation Fund.
  2. Technology transfer: modern technologies for climate change adaptation and emissions reduction.
  3. Global Leadership: Opportunities to lead climate diplomacy and renewable energy innovation.

What are the tracking progress and results of the Paris Agreement and the Kyoto Protocol?

1. In accordance with the Paris Agreement:

  • The Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF) ensures regular reporting on climate action.
  • Promote competitive zero-carbon solutions, especially in the energy and transport sectors.

2. According to the Kyoto Protocol:

  • Rigorous monitoring, review and verification systems track compliance.
  • Encourage green investment in developing countries.

in conclusion

The Paris Agreement and the Kyoto Protocol mark important milestones in the global response to climate change. The Kyoto Protocol laid the foundation, while the Paris Agreement represents a more inclusive and long-term strategy. Together, these frameworks enable countries to transition to sustainable development and respond to the growing threat of climate change.

For more updates on global climate action and India’s role, stay tuned!