In “Landing the Paris Climate Agreement,” Todd Stern chronicles the arduous process leading to the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement. The book details pivotal negotiations, the dynamics among international delegates, and the multi-faceted challenges of climate diplomacy. It underscores the significance of the Agreement, contextualizing its relevance within broader environmental efforts, while reflecting on the setbacks following the U.S. withdrawal.
In his book, “Landing the Paris Climate Agreement: How It Happened, Why It Matters, and What Comes Next,” Todd Stern, the former U.S. Special Envoy for Climate Change, provides an intricate, first-hand narrative of the monumental efforts leading up to the historic signing of the Paris Climate Agreement on December 12, 2015. As highlighted by former French President François Hollande, this date is etched into environmental history, yet it was the result of tireless negotiations fraught with challenges. Stern meticulously chronicles every detail—from participant backgrounds and meeting dynamics to the logistical aspects of negotiation strategies—illuminating how pivotal discussions shaped the framework of the Agreement. Stern’s insights reflect his insider perspective, having collaborated closely with prominent political figures including Al Gore, Bill Clinton, and John Podesta. He depicts the often tedious process of climate negotiations, emphasizing the technical nuances and heated debates over seemingly minor word choices that bear significant implications for treaty ratifications. The narrative vividly contrasts chaotic events from the 2009 Copenhagen COP15 to more subdued exchanges during COP16 in Cancun, capturing the serious realities faced by negotiators. Among the notable anecdotes, the unique dynamic between Stern and his Chinese counterpart, Xie Zhenhua, unfolds, exemplifying the complexities of international diplomacy. Throughout the book, Stern acknowledges the contributions of various nations, highlighting the importance of coalition-building for smaller nations while also reflecting on the broader geopolitical landscape that influenced negotiations. He adeptly describes the final days of the Paris Conference, culminating in moments that shaped the eventual consensus. The book concludes with a somber acknowledgment of the American withdrawal from the Agreement shortly after its signing, yet it underscores the resilience of the global community in continuing efforts to address climate change in the absence of U.S. leadership. Overall, Todd Stern instills a profound respect for the laborious nature of climate diplomacy and the critical importance of continued engagement in combating global environmental issues.
The Paris Climate Agreement, signed on December 12, 2015, at the COP21 summit in Paris, represents a milestone in international efforts to combat climate change. The agreement sets targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial levels. The process leading up to this agreement involved complex negotiations among nearly 200 countries, each with differing priorities and economic considerations. Critical discussions and agreements, including the pivotal 2014 U.S.-China agreement, established the foundation for the eventual global consensus achieved in Paris.
“Landing the Paris Climate Agreement” offers a detailed exploration of the intensive negotiations that shaped one of the most significant environmental agreements in history. Todd Stern’s narrative highlights the challenges of climate diplomacy and the intricate processes involved, emphasizing the importance of coalitions and nuanced negotiations. Despite political setbacks following the agreement’s signing, the book serves as a testament to the ongoing global commitment to addressing climate change, showcasing the dedication of negotiators like Stern who labor tirelessly for the planet’s future.
Original Source: earth.org
