Most scientific experts agree that climate change is already occurring and has potentially catastrophic consequences for all of life on Earth. The Paris Agreement of 2015 represented a global consensus on the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, in 2017 the United States announced its intention to withdraw from the Agreement in 2020. Go online to research and summarize the main agreements reached in this historic global climate accord and the U.S. government's reasons for withdrawing. What roles do you think scientists, politicians, and citizens will need to play to cut emissions and limit global warming?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Research the key objectives and commitments made by countries in the Paris Agreement of 2015. Focus on the main goal of limiting global temperature increase to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, and pursuing efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
2. Investigate the specific reasons provided by the U.S. government for withdrawing from the Paris Agreement in 2017. Look into statements made by government officials, including economic concerns and issues related to national sovereignty.
3. Analyze the role of scientists in addressing climate change, which includes conducting research to understand the extent of climate change, developing new technologies to reduce emissions, and informing the public and policymakers about the science of climate change.
4. Examine the role of politicians in combating climate change, which involves creating policies and regulations that aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as well as participating in international agreements and negotiations like the Paris Agreement.
5. Consider the role of citizens in contributing to the reduction of emissions and limiting global warming. This can include adopting more sustainable lifestyles, supporting policies and leaders committed to fighting climate change, and staying informed about the science and issues related to climate change.

Key Concepts

Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to global warming. Their increased concentration due to human activities, like burning fossil fuels and deforestation, is a primary driver of climate change. Understanding the sources and impacts of these emissions is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate climate change.

The Paris Agreement

The Paris Agreement is an international treaty adopted in 2015 aimed at combating climate change by limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. It establishes a framework for countries to set and achieve their own emission reduction targets, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). The agreement emphasizes the importance of global cooperation and accountability in addressing climate change.

Roles of Stakeholders in Climate Action

Addressing climate change requires collaboration among scientists, politicians, and citizens. Scientists provide critical research and data to inform policy decisions, while politicians create and implement regulations and agreements like the Paris Accord. Citizens play a vital role by advocating for change, adopting sustainable practices, and holding leaders accountable, thus fostering a collective effort to reduce emissions and combat global warming.