Obama took significant credit for America’ role in the process toward the climate deal which came after four years of UN-led negotiations that often pitted the interests of advanced nations against developing countries. “India has got right words like “equity” and “common but differentiated responsibilities” mentioned in many places, but historic responsibility has been completely done away with”.
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After countries sign the agreement, at least 55 countries representing at least 55 percent of global emissions must ratify it before it can take effect. This is an area of concern as developed countries have historically reneged on commitments of financial and technology transfers.
Energy and Climate Change Secretary Amber Rudd said: “I appreciate we’ve made changes, but I’ve now set out very clearly the energy plan for the United Kingdom for the future”.
In what would be a victory for small island nations, the agreement includes a section highlighting the losses they expect to incur from climate-related disasters that it’s too late to adapt to.
“As a result of the climate agreement we can be more confident the Earth will be in better shape”, he said. Developed nations will have to provide $100 billion by 2020 and are to scale it up.
Obama has not been able to have much legislative success in Congress to deal with “climate change”, and Republicans have opposed his unilateral actions.
French President Francois Hollande says he is proud of the commitments of almost 200 countries that have adopted the Paris agreement.
To a reception of whoops and cheers, and a standing ovation, Laurent Fabius told the hall: “I now invite the conference to adopt the decision. You can be proud to stand before your children and grandchildren”.
Tom Ballantine, chairman of Stop Climate Chaos Scotland, who was in Paris as an observer, criticised “the failure to reach a strong, ambitious deal”. All countries will be required to take some action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, regardless of economic development, by 2020.
The world leaders led by US President Barack Obama today welcomed the adoption of a legally-binding pact seeking to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, calling it a big step forward in securing the planet for future generations. “Environment groups said the Paris agreement is a turning point in history and spelt the demise of the fossil fuel industry, pointing particularly to the significance of the 1.5 degree Celsius goal”.
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THERE are several articles of the Paris Agreement which cover carbon emissions, capacity building, loss and damage, mitigation and adaptation and technological transfer.
