What Environmental International Agreements Is the Us a Part of
The United States is a signatory to several environmental international agreements that work towards mitigating climate change, protecting endangered species, and conserving natural resources. These agreements aim to address global environmental concerns through coordinated efforts between nations.
1. Paris Agreement – The Paris Agreement is an agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) that was signed by the US in 2016. The agreement aims to limit global temperature increase to below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It also aims to increase global resilience to the impacts of climate change.
2. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) – CITES is an international agreement that regulates the trade of endangered species. The US joined CITES in 1975 and has played a significant role in implementing the agreement`s provisions, such as its ban on the commercial trade of elephant ivory.
3. Montreal Protocol – The Montreal Protocol is an international agreement signed in 1987 to phase out the use of ozone-depleting substances (ODS). The US is a signatory to the agreement and has contributed significantly to its implementation. The agreement has been successful in reducing the production and consumption of ODS, which has helped to protect the ozone layer.
4. Convention on Wetlands of International Importance – The Ramsar Convention, as it is commonly known, is an international agreement that aims to conserve wetlands. The US has been a party to the convention since 1987 and has designated 38 wetlands as Wetlands of International Importance.
5. Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) – The CBD is an international agreement that aims to promote the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. The US became a party to the CBD in 1993 and has played a key role in its implementation. The agreement has helped to raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation and has facilitated international cooperation in this area.
In conclusion, the US is a signatory to several environmental international agreements that aim to address global environmental concerns. These agreements have played a significant role in protecting natural resources, mitigating climate change, and conserving biodiversity. It is important for the US to continue its commitment to these agreements to ensure a sustainable future for our planet.
