Adoption of the First Paris Agreement Text - December 5, 2015
2015 · Paris, France
The first issue of the Paris climate agreement text was adopted by consensus during the COP21 summit in Paris.
United Nations Climate Change Conference in Buenos Aires - December 5, 2004
The 10th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 10) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held a significant meeting in Buenos Aires, Argentina, from December 6 to December 17, 2004. Although not starting precisely on December 5, it’s crucial to highlight the conference’s context on this date as negotiations were being prepared.
Context and Background
COP 10 followed the outcomes of the Kyoto Protocol, a landmark international treaty that committed its parties to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Kyoto Protocol was adopted in 1997 and entered into force in February 2005 after Russia ratified it in November 2004, completing the requirement for its enactment. This atmosphere of impending enforcement added a layer of urgency and importance to the discussions in Buenos Aires.
Key Themes and Discussions
Future Climate Actions: The primary focus of COP 10 revolved around discussing future actions and strategies for implementing the Kyoto Protocol’s commitments. Participants sought to address unresolved issues from previous conferences and chart a path forward for post-2012 climate strategies, given the Protocol’s initial commitment period ending that year.
Adaptation to Climate Change: The conference also dealt with adaptation measures, particularly for developing countries that were more vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Strengthening international support systems for these regions was a critical agenda item.
Capacity Building and Technology Transfer: There was a significant emphasis on technology transfer from developed to developing countries, along with capacity-building initiatives. These discussions were crucial in ensuring that all countries could effectively participate in climate change mitigation and adaptation.
Reviewing Progress: COP 10 offered a platform to assess the progress made by various countries in reducing emissions, enabling a review of existing commitments and capabilities.
Outcomes
The conference resulted in several key decisions and outcomes:
- The Buenos Aires Programme of Work on Adaptation and Response Measures was established, aimed at addressing the adaptability needs of developing nations.
- Progress was made in negotiating future responsibilities and objectives, setting the stage for future COPs to explore deeper commitments post-2012.
- The adaptation measures and financial mechanisms discussed paved the way for further infrastructural and financial frameworks to support vulnerable nations.
Significance
COP 10 in Buenos Aires was a transitional conference, setting the stage for the Kyoto Protocol’s imminent implementation. It emphasized the importance of cooperative global action against climate change and set precedent discussions for subsequent conferences on long-term climate solutions. It also highlighted the need for developed nations to support their developing counterparts in addressing climate challenges, both financially and technologically.