2.1

• What was the significance of COP21 held in 2015?

  It was the first legally binding global climate change deal, signed by 195 countries.
• What is the long-term temperature goal set by the Paris Agreement?

  To limit global temperature rise to below 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
• What are NDCs in the context of the Paris Agreement?

  Nationally Determined Contributions—voluntary pledges by countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, updated yearly.
• What financial commitment did developed countries make at COP21?

  To mobilize $100 billion per year by 2020 to support climate action in developing countries.
• What was the US's emission reduction pledge under COP21?

  To reduce GHG emissions below 2005 levels by 2025.
• What was the UK’s emissions target under the Paris Agreement?

  A 40% reduction in emissions by 2030 compared to 1990 levels.
• What percentage of global energy came from fossil fuels in 2022?

  82%.
• How did fossil fuel consumption change from 2015 to 2022?

  Increased from 11 billion tonnes to 15 billion tonnes.
• Why did economic priorities challenge climate goals after COP21?

  Focus on recovery from the 2008 financial crash and COVID-19 encouraged a "business as usual" approach.
• How did energy insecurity affect fossil fuel use post-COP21?

  The 2014 and 2022 Russia-Ukraine conflicts led countries to reopen or expand their own fossil fuel reserves.
• How much did US GHG emissions decrease by 2022 compared to 2005?

  17%—short of its 28% reduction target.
• What notable milestone did the UK reach in 2023 regarding emissions?

  Its lowest emissions since 1879.
• What role does OPEC play in oil pricing?

  Adjusts oil production to stabilize prices when demand changes.
• Why did oil prices fall sharply after 2012?

  New oil and shale gas supplies from Canada and the US, including tar sands and fracking.
• How did fracking affect some OPEC countries?

  Reduced their oil revenues due to oversupply and lower prices.
• How did US oil consumption and emissions change from 2006 to 2021?

  CO2 emissions fell from 6.06 to 5.01 tonnes, even though oil consumption and the economy grew.
• Why is it challenging for India to abandon fossil fuels?

  Economic development, new infrastructure, a growing middle class, and 600 million new electricity users increase energy demand.
• What contradiction exists between India’s climate pledges and actions?

  Despite signing the Paris Agreement, it increased coal production, including plans for 99 new mines as of October 2022. 70% of energy comes from coal
• What is India’s rank in global greenhouse gas emissions?

  Third largest, contributing 7.3% of global emissions (after China and the US).
• What controversial issue is associated with India’s coal mining?

  Use of child labour in coalmines to keep costs low and promote economic growth, affecting education.