The Kyoto Protocol is an agreement aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The protocol was established on December 11, 1997, and came into effect on February 16, 2005. It is an international treaty that has been signed by 192 countries.
The key objective of the Kyoto Protocol is to reduce emissions of six greenhouse gases, namely carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). These gases have a significant impact on the Earth`s climate and are responsible for global warming.
Under the Kyoto Protocol, developed countries such as the United States, Japan, Canada, and Western Europe agreed to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 5.2% below 1990 levels. The developing countries, including China and India, are exempted from the protocol`s targets.
To achieve these targets, countries have implemented various measures, including investing in renewable energy, implementing energy-efficient technologies, promoting public transportation, and reducing deforestation. Additionally, countries can trade emission credits and invest in projects that reduce emissions in other countries.
Despite its effectiveness, the Kyoto Protocol has been criticized for various reasons. Firstly, it is not binding on developing countries, which account for a vast majority of global greenhouse gas emissions. Secondly, the United States, which is responsible for 25% of the world`s greenhouse gas emissions, did not ratify the agreement. Thirdly, some countries have failed to meet their targets, which has undermined the protocol`s credibility.
In conclusion, the Kyoto Protocol is an essential agreement aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the effects of climate change. While it has its limitations, it has been instrumental in raising awareness about the urgent need to address global warming and has paved the way for further international cooperation on climate change.