Question
Legal Studies Question on Environmental Law
At the heart of Paris Agreement climate change regime is Intended National Determined Contributions (INDC). Which of the following best describes an INDC?
Legally binding targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions for all countries, regardless of their economic status
Fixed regional targets set by the United Nations that countries must comply with to mitigate climate change
Voluntary commitments made by countries outlining their plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate impacts, based on national circumstances
Financial mechanism to provide developing countries with funding for climate adaptation and mitigation efforts
Voluntary commitments made by countries outlining their plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate impacts, based on national circumstances
Solution
Under the Paris Agreement, INDCs are voluntary commitments made by each country that outline their plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change. These commitments are tailored to each country’s national circumstances, capacities, and development priorities. The idea is for countries to contribute voluntarily to global efforts to mitigate climate change. Thus, the correct answer is c) Voluntary commitments made by countries outlining their plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate impacts, based on national circumstances.