Paris Climate Change Conference: A Fresh Start of International Climate Governance in the New Era

Abstract

After tough negotiations, the Paris Agreement finally reached at the Climate Change Conference in Paris. When taking the background into consideration, though the process is tortuous and arduous, the desirability of the Agreement needs no affirmation. Global warming is unequivocal, posing a serious risk to global economic, social sustainable development and natural as well as ecological environment. Scientific evidence shows that human activity is the main cause of current global warming. Tackling climate change should be the path leading the whole society to shift towards low-carbon, green, and circular development, in order to achieve the sustainable development of the international community. World leaders gathered in Paris to discuss actions against climate change and helped establish an international climate governance system after 2020. As governments and the international community are gradually reaching a consensus on the issue of addressing climate change, positive political will and the awareness of win–win cooperation are growing strong. The adoption of the Paris Agreement indicates a new phase of international climate governance, encouraging the parties to participate with more inclusive and practical ways.