The Paris Agreement, also known as the Paris Climate Accord, is an international agreement signed in 2015 by 196 parties with the goal of limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. The agreement was negotiated at the United Nations Climate Change Conference, commonly known as COP 21, held in Paris, France.

The Paris Agreement was a significant milestone in the fight against climate change, as it brought together countries from all around the world to work towards a common goal. The agreement was based on the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, which recognizes that developed countries, which have historically been the largest emitters of greenhouse gases, have the greatest responsibility to take action to reduce their emissions.

The Paris Agreement builds upon the previous climate agreements, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol. It aims to mobilize the necessary resources to implement the necessary measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and to help countries adapt to the impacts of climate change.

One of the key features of the Paris Agreement is the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which are pledges made by each country to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Each country sets its own targets, which are reviewed and updated every five years. The Paris Agreement also includes provisions for transparency and accountability, including a framework for tracking progress towards meeting the targets set in the NDCs.

The Paris Agreement has received widespread support from governments, businesses, and civil society organizations around the world. However, it has also faced criticism from some who argue that the targets set in the NDCs are not ambitious enough to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, and that the agreement lacks binding enforcement mechanisms.

Despite these criticisms, the Paris Agreement remains a critical step towards addressing the urgent issue of climate change. As the world continues to grapple with the impacts of climate change, it is essential that governments and individuals take action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainability. The Paris Agreement provides a framework for collective action and a path towards a more sustainable future for all.