Protocolo de Kioto

Overview of the Kyoto Protocol

Introduction to the Kyoto Protocol

• The Kyoto Protocol is an international agreement established in 1997 under the United Nations, signed by major world economies. It aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions contributing to global warming.

Commitments and Goals

• Countries, particularly developed nations and those transitioning to market economies, committed to reducing their emissions by at least 5% from 2008 to 2012 based on 1990 levels.

• The protocol targets six greenhouse gases resulting from human activities, including carbon dioxide and methane. It also seeks to address global issues related to climate change.

Mechanisms for Flexibility

• The protocol introduced three flexibility mechanisms: emissions trading, the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), and Joint Implementation (JI). These are designed to facilitate compliance among countries.

Effectiveness of the Protocol

• Despite its intentions, the Kyoto Protocol has not met its objectives; CO2 emissions increased by 12.6% globally from 1990 levels by 2012.

• Only 35 industrialized countries were obligated under the protocol. Notably, Japan, Russia, Canada, and the U.S. did not comply with extensions or commitments.

Limitations and Future Directions

• Emerging industrial powers like India, Brazil, and Mexico were exempt from obligations under Kyoto. In response, a new agreement was sought during a meeting in Paris in 2015.

Emission Permits Explained

• Emission permits allow industries to pollute up to agreed limits; unused permits can be saved or sold. Industries exceeding their allocation must purchase additional permits from others who have surplus allocations.

Conclusion on Environmental Awareness