Climate change is an urgent and complex issue, stemming from the continuous interaction between human activities and the environment, disrupting nature’s balance. Paradoxically, globalization, while boosting economic growth and connectivity, aggravates environmental problems. International negotiations from 1979 to 1994 led to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 1994, with 198 member nations aiming to stabilize greenhouse gasconcentrations. The UNFCCC seeks to limit global temperature increases to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, with an effort to achieve 1.5°C. (UN REPORT).
International conventions, such as Kyoto Protocol (1997) and Paris Agreement (2015), emerged as crucial platforms within the UNFCCC framework for discussing climate goals. These agreements represent global efforts to address climate change and pave the way for a sustainable future. However, the question is:
Why is it important to engage in discussions on climate goals?
Engaging in deliberations on climate goals is essential for moving towards a more sustainable world. It entails safeguarding the planet for future generations, preserving non-renewable resources, and optimizing their utilization. Nevertheless, while these discussions are necessary, their concrete outcomes are yet to be seen.
The far-reaching effects of climate change touch upon every aspect of human life. It precipitates food insecurity by disrupting agricultural patterns and threatens public health through various mechanisms, such as the spread of disease and extreme weather events. This interconnectedness between climate and politics is undeniable, as these insecurities transcend national borders, posing threats to state security and profoundly affecting a nation’s economic and political systems.
In the grand theater of global affairs, politics invariably takes center stage. The national interests of different states inevitably impact the functioning of the UNFCCC. The possibility that a climate policy may run counter to the national interest of a specific state can wield significant influence over decision-making processes and hinder effective policy implementation.
Talking about climate goals is not just about the environment; it’s crucial for us to build a better, sustainable world. Even though there are complex issues like global politics and differing country interests, working together on a global scale is very important to deal with the serious problems caused by climate change and live peacefully with nature. We can only make things better by sticking to our promises, taking big steps, and coming up with creative solutions. This is how we can reduce the harm from climate change and make the future better for everyone.