What is the primary goal of the Paris Agreement?

The primary goal of the Paris Agreement is to set international targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This landmark treaty, adopted in 2015, aims to bring nations together to combat climate change by limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial levels, with efforts to restrict the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Countries that are signatories to the Agreement are encouraged to establish and communicate their own nationally determined contributions (NDCs), which are pledges outlining their commitments to reduce emissions and enhance efforts to mitigate climate change. The focus on reducing greenhouse gases is critical because these emissions are a major driver of climate change, contributing to extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and environmental degradation.

In contrast to the other options, the Paris Agreement does not aim to promote fossil fuel consumption, redistribute wealth, or specifically target urbanization in developing countries. Instead, its central purpose revolves around fostering cooperation among nations in creating a sustainable future through emission reductions and climate resilience.