The Paris Agreement, also known as the Paris Climate Accord, is an international treaty aimed at combating climate change. It was adopted by 195 countries in 2015 and entered into force in 2016.

The objective of the Paris Agreement is to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius. To achieve this goal, the agreement sets out several key provisions.

First, each country is required to submit a nationally determined contribution (NDC) that outlines its plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These NDCs are non-binding, but countries are encouraged to strengthen them over time.

Second, the Paris Agreement establishes a framework for transparency and accountability, with a requirement for regular reporting on emissions and progress towards meeting NDCs. This helps to ensure that countries are held accountable for their commitments.

Third, the Paris Agreement includes provisions for financial assistance to developing countries to help them transition to low-carbon economies. This includes funding for adaptation measures to help mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as sea level rise and extreme weather events.

Finally, the Paris Agreement establishes a mechanism for market-based approaches to reduce emissions, such as carbon trading and offsetting. This can provide additional incentives for countries and businesses to reduce their emissions and invest in clean technologies.

The Paris Agreement has been hailed as a major achievement in the global fight against climate change. However, its effectiveness depends on the willingness of countries to implement and strengthen their NDCs over time, and to take action to reduce emissions in line with the objectives of the agreement.

In recent years, some countries have voiced skepticism about the Paris Agreement and have withdrawn or signaled their intention to withdraw from the treaty. However, many other countries remain committed to the agreement and are taking ambitious action to reduce emissions and address the impacts of climate change.

Overall, the Paris Agreement represents a landmark achievement in international cooperation on climate change, and provides a framework for continued action and progress in the years to come.