Environmental Politics Environmental Justice Questions
There are several key international agreements and conventions related to environmental justice. Some of the most significant ones include:
1. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC): This agreement, adopted in 1992, aims to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere and prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system. It has been instrumental in shaping global efforts to address climate change and promote environmental justice.
2. Kyoto Protocol: An extension of the UNFCCC, the Kyoto Protocol was adopted in 1997 and sets binding emission reduction targets for developed countries. It aims to combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable development.
3. Paris Agreement: Adopted in 2015, the Paris Agreement builds upon the UNFCCC and aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. It emphasizes the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, recognizing the different capacities and circumstances of developed and developing countries.
4. Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD): This convention, adopted in 1992, aims to conserve biodiversity, promote sustainable use of its components, and ensure the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources. It recognizes the importance of environmental justice in protecting ecosystems and the rights of indigenous peoples and local communities.
5. Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs): Adopted in 2001, this convention aims to protect human health and the environment from highly toxic chemicals that persist in the environment. It promotes environmental justice by addressing the disproportionate impacts of POPs on vulnerable populations.
6. Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal: This convention, adopted in 1989, aims to minimize the generation of hazardous wastes and ensure their environmentally sound management. It promotes environmental justice by addressing the transboundary movement of hazardous wastes and preventing their dumping in developing countries.
These international agreements and conventions play a crucial role in promoting environmental justice by addressing global environmental challenges, ensuring equitable access to resources, and protecting vulnerable populations from the adverse impacts of environmental degradation.