Climate: Kyoto Protocol Flashcards
1
Q
When was the protocol created?
A
1997
2
Q
When was it implemented?
A
2005
3
Q
Where was the protocol held?
A
An international and intergovernmental meeting in Kyoto, Japan
4
Q
How many countries were involved?
A
183
5
Q
What was the agreement that they signed?
A
They signed up to an agreement which involved stabilizing GHG emissions at safe levels that would avoid serious climate change.
6
Q
What was the aim?
A
Aimed to cut GHG emissions by 5% of their 1990 levels by 2012.
7
Q
What sort of targets were set for each country?
A
There were individual targets for each country with a final deadline of 2012.
8
Q
What are the pros of the protocol?
A
- set targets to reduce GHGs that cause global warming and climate change.
- nations can use ‘cap and trade’ Cap limits placed on GHG emissions on each country. Trade allows countries to buy or sell their emission allowances.
9
Q
What are the cons of the protocol?
A
- goals set for 2012 were not met.
- not all countries have ratified any of the protocols so don’t need to cut emissions. (e.g. USA). Some countries pulled out e.g. Canada.
- Developing countries are exempt from the protocol. e.g. China and India which produce a lot of GHG emissions.
- US never signed it.
- Relies on carbon trading. Prone to corruption.