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beginning of the UNFCCC
At the Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is signed. The treaty aims to prevent harmful anthropogenic interference with the climate system and moderate the levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. -
Progress in green house gas reduction
The Kyoto Protocol is ratified during the Third Conference of the Parties (COP 3) of the UNFCCC in Kyoto, Japan. By the commitment period of 2008–2012, developed countries will commit themselves to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of 5.2% on average below 1990 levels. -
Major efforts
Enough nations agreed on the Kyoto Protocol for it to be put into effect. The 55 nations initially responsible for at least 55% of global greenhouse gas emissions signed the protocol, making it legally enforceable for those nations. -
Paris Joins
At the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP 21) to the UNFCCC in Paris, France, the Paris Agreement is ratified. With a goal of keeping global warming below 2 degrees Celsius over the past century, the pact presents a new international system for addressing climate change. -
America Rejoins
The United States rejoins the Paris Agreement, following an order signed by President Joe Biden.