8.9A Global Environmental Issues

• • Global environmental issues affect everyone and agreements need to support from all nations
  • The UN has/is trying to manage many of the world's environmental issues, but has seen varying success
  • Over time, numerous other agencies, IGOs and agreements have come into being that deal with particular issues and environmental governance
• Montreal Protocol (1987)

  • In 1974, a group of scientists suggested that chemicals used in products such as aerosols, packaging and fridges, could deplete the ozone layer and increase harm to humans and wildlife on earth
  • By 1985, the ozone depletion theory was proven, when a 'hole in the ozone layer' was discovered over Antarctica
  • An agreement was signed two years later and entered into force in 1989
  • Six amendments and adjustments have been made since then
• Montreal Protocol agreement:

  • The agreement regulates the production and consumption of nearly 100 ozone depleting substances (ODS), such as CFCs, halons, HCFCs, methyl bromide and HFCs
  • The agreement has been successful in reducing the global emissions of ODS and restoring the ozone layer, as well as contributing to climate change mitigation
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES):

  • CITES is a multilateral treaty to protect endangered plants and animals from the threats of international trade and organised by IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature)
  • Legal trade in wild animals and plants (alive or dead) is worth an estimated US$220 billion each year
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES):

  • lists 40,000 species of animals and plants, whether traded as live specimens, fur coats or dried herbs
  • It regulates trade through a system of permits and certificates issued by national authorities
  • However, protection of species from illegal trade is difficult to manage as goods typically cross borders between countries which requires international cooperation and is expensive to monitor