Paris Agreement on Climate Change
2015-12-12
2016-09-03
Summary
The Paris Agreement aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, with efforts to limit to 1.5°C. Each party submits nationally determined contributions (NDCs) outlining emissions reduction targets. The U.S. withdrew under President Trump (effective November 2020), rejoined under President Biden (February 2021), and the status has continued to shift with subsequent administrations.
Parties
U.S. Implementing Legislation
Inflation Reduction Act of 2022
Pub. L. 117-169
Provides approximately $369 billion in energy security and climate change investments, serving as the primary domestic implementation mechanism for Paris Agreement commitments.
Key Cases
Juliana v. United States, 947 F.3d 1159 (9th Cir. 2020) — Constitutional climate claims dismissed for lack of judicial remedy
West Virginia v. EPA, 597 U.S. 697 (2022) — Major questions doctrine limits EPA authority under Clean Air Act