UN Framework convention on climate change (COP 21 ) is also known as _____

The correct answer is The Paris Climate Change Conference.

Key Points

• The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) COP 21 is popularly known as The Paris Climate Change Conference.
• It was held in Paris, France, from November 30 to December 12, 2015, with the participation of 196 countries.
• The key outcome of COP 21 was the Paris Agreement, a legally binding international treaty on climate change adopted by 196 Parties on December 12, 2015.
• The Paris Agreement aims to limit global warming to below 2°C, preferably to 1.5°C, compared to pre-industrial levels.
• The agreement emphasizes the need for countries to submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), detailing their plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Additional Information

• UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change):
  • The UNFCCC is an international environmental treaty adopted in 1992 at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro.
  • Its primary objective is to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere to prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system.
• Paris Agreement:
  • The Paris Agreement is a landmark in global climate change efforts, entered into force on November 4, 2016.
  • It requires countries to update their NDCs every five years, reflecting increased ambition over time.
• COP (Conference of the Parties):
  • COP refers to the supreme decision-making body of the UNFCCC, comprising representatives of all Parties to the convention.
  • The first COP was held in Berlin in 1995, and COP 21 was the 21st annual session.
• 1.5°C Goal:
  • Scientific studies, including those by the IPCC, highlight that limiting warming to 1.5°C would significantly reduce the risks of extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and ecosystem damage.
  • This goal is central to the Paris Agreement and requires immediate and ambitious climate action.
• Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs):
  • NDCs are climate action plans submitted by countries outlining their efforts to reduce emissions and adapt to climate impacts.
  • These are reviewed and updated periodically to enhance global climate action.