The Paris Agreement was adopted by consensus on 12 December 2015, by the 196 parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) during the COP21 conference held in Paris, France. The Paris Agreement aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with a goal of limiting the increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
Australia is one of the parties to the Paris Agreement, and as such, the country is committed to contributing to global efforts to reduce emissions and build climate resilience. The Australian Government has set a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 26-28% below 2005 levels by 2030, and the country is making progress towards achieving this target.
Australia has taken a number of steps to implement the Paris Agreement, including the establishment of the Climate Solutions Package in 2018, which includes measures to reduce emissions from industry, transport, and agriculture. The country has also invested in renewable energy, with more than 20% of electricity generated in Australia coming from renewable sources in 2018.
Despite these efforts, Australia has been criticized for not doing enough to meet its emissions reduction targets. The country has been ranked as one of the worst performers in the Climate Change Performance Index 2021, which assesses the efforts of 57 countries to tackle climate change. Australia`s lack of ambition in reducing emissions has been attributed to its reliance on the coal industry, which is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions.
In addition to reducing emissions, Australia is also working to build climate resilience. The country has developed a National Climate Resilience and Adaptation Strategy, which aims to help communities, businesses, and governments prepare for the impacts of climate change. The strategy includes measures to improve infrastructure, water management, and disaster preparedness.
In conclusion, Australia is one of the parties committed to the Paris Agreement, and the country is taking steps to reduce emissions and build climate resilience. However, there is still more work to be done, particularly in reducing reliance on the coal industry. With continued efforts and commitment to the Paris Agreement, Australia can contribute to global efforts to tackle climate change and protect the planet for future generations.