Kyoto Protocol

11 December 1997 (in force 2005) · Kyoto, Japan

Global: UN, law & climate

Background

Following the principle of 'common but differentiated responsibilities', only developed countries had binding targets: about 5% below 1990 levels in 2008–2012. It introduced carbon trading and the Clean Development Mechanism. The USA never ratified it.

Signed by

Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change

Why it matters

Set binding greenhouse-gas cuts for developed countries; replaced in practice by the Paris Agreement.