Sustainability Unplugged

Paris Climate Agreement Explained

Lynn Kratzberg & Jessica Gordon Season 1 Episode 29

In this episode, we dive deep into the history, purpose, and ongoing debates surrounding the Paris Climate Agreement. Originally formed at the 2015 Conference of the Parties (COP) in Paris, this landmark accord brought 197 nations together to combat climate change. We explore what the agreement aims to achieve.

We break down the United States' on-again, off-again relationship with the agreement—from ratifying it in 2016, withdrawing in 2020, rejoining in 2021, and the looming exit in 2026. What does this back-and-forth mean for global climate efforts? 

We also tackle the economic debate surrounding the Paris Agreement. Critics argue that staying in the agreement could cost the U.S. millions of jobs and trillions of dollars, while supporters emphasize the long-term benefits of investing in renewable energy and reducing climate-related disasters.

To wrap up, we ask: What’s the next big green thing? We encourage listeners to engage with local climate initiatives, research whether their state is part of the U.S. Climate Alliance, and make their voices heard. The fight for a sustainable future isn’t just global—it’s local too.

People on this episode