The Protocol is an international agreement established under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to combat climate change by mandating greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions from industrialized countries. Adopted in 1997 and activated in 2005, it specifically binds 37 developed nations and the European Union to reduce their emissions by an average of 5% below 1990 levels during its first commitment period (2008–2012). The Protocol enforces the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities,” recognizing that industrialized countries have historically contributed the most to greenhouse gas accumulation and therefore bear a greater responsibility in reducing them.
If fully implemented, the Kyoto Protocol has the potential to achieve significant environmental and social outcomes:
- Emission Reductions: By enforcing reductions in carbon dioxide and other GHGs, the Protocol can contribute to curbing global temperature rise, slowing climate change impacts like extreme weather, sea-level rise, and biodiversity loss.
- Promotion of Sustainable Development: Through mechanisms like the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), which encourages green investments in developing countries, the Protocol supports sustainable economic development, green technologies, and resilience-building in vulnerable regions.
- Foundation for Future Agreements: The Kyoto Protocol laid the groundwork for more comprehensive agreements like the Paris Agreement by demonstrating the feasibility and importance of binding emission targets.
- Encouraging Accountability and Reporting: The Protocol requires participating countries to monitor and report their emissions, which promotes transparency and accountability in international climate efforts.
- Financial and Technological Support: By recognizing the need for financial and technological aid to developing nations, the Protocol fosters global cooperation essential for addressing climate change inclusively.