The Kyoto Protocol is an international agreement under the United Nations about the climate change crisis. Thirty seven industrialized countries and the European community agreed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Originally, George Bush (a presidential canditate at the time) agreed to this protocol. However, after his election, he withdrew U.S. support (1).
The greenhouse gas emissions from the countries who agreed to the protocol have decreased by almost five percent from 1990 to 2005. France, the UK and Germany achieved reductions of 7, 15 and 19 percent. However, total emissions for all other developed countries have actually risen by about 10 percent. Emissions have also increased by about 40 percent in Canada (2).
So far, the Kyoto protocol seems to be only slightly successful in decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. It is apparent that if we want drastic change, a worldwide agreement must be made. Continue on to the "solutions" page to see our suggestion.
1) West, Larry. "What is the Kyoto Protocol?" About.com. N.p., 2012. Web. 5 Apr.
2012. <http://environment.about.com/od/kyotoprotocol/i/
kyotoprotocol.htm>.
2) Lightfoot, Paul. "Kyoto Protocol Achievements." Meteorology & Climatology. N.p.,
n.d. Web. 9 Apr. 2012. <http://paul-lightfoot.suite101.com/
kyoto-protocol-achievements-a49035>.
