Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

General Information

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What is it about?

This instrument establishes for State parties numerical percentage goals for the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere, so as to prevent global warming. It is adopted under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (New York, 9 May 1992). The Kyoto Protocol concerns six gases (CO2, CH4, N2O, HFC, PFC and SF6). Developed countries are required to lower their emissions of these noxious gases by at least 5% below the 1990 levels. The requirements vary by State but must be established at least between 2008 and 2012. In order to achieve these objectives, State parties are required to improve their energy yield, reform their energy and transport sectors, promote the usage of renewable energies and to protect their forests. Some flexibility is offered to States that cannot reduce their internal emissions enough to satisfy their international obligations. The Protocol includes three market-based instruments known as the Kyoto Mechanisms that allow countries to earn or buy credits outside their borders. States may also fulfil their obligations by financing projects leading to the reduction of greenhouse gases. These projects may be undertaken on either their own territory or that of another State.

Why is it relevant?

In addition to protecting health and the environment, the Kyoto Protocol of 1997 prevents States from establishing discriminatory practices related to international trade under the guise of greenhouse gas protections. Developing countries are not restricted by the Kyoto Protocol, even those that emit the most greenhouse gases. Signatory developing countries benefit, however, from greenhouse gas reduction projects financed on their territory.

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