Paris Agreement
PAIR-is ah-GREE-ment
ˈpærɪs əˈɡriːməntListen
Hear it in a clear American voice. Slow it down to catch each syllable.
Syllable breakdown
Dictionary meaning
the landmark 2015 international treaty adopted at COP21 in Paris under the UNFCCC, committing nearly all nations to limit global average temperature rise to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C; introduces Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) — voluntary national climate pledges updated every five years; entered into force in November 2016; the United States rejoined in 2021 after withdrawing in 2020
Examples
- The Paris Agreement is the first climate accord to require every country, not just wealthy nations, to submit emissions targets.
- Scientists warn that current NDCs under the Paris Agreement are insufficient to meet the 1.5°C goal.
Pronunciation tips
Stress 'Paris' on the first syllable (PAIR-is). 'Agreement' stress is on the second syllable (ah-GREE-ment). Do not confuse with 'Kyoto Protocol' — the Paris Agreement has universal participation and NDC flexibility.
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