International agreements play a key role in global responses to climate change and are an important focus in IB Geography, particularly within the Global Climate: Vulnerability and Resilience unit. Because climate change is a global issue that crosses national borders, international cooperation is essential. However, the effectiveness of these agreements is often debated.
One major strength of international agreements is that they encourage collective action. Climate change cannot be solved by individual countries acting alone, as greenhouse gas emissions affect the entire planet. International agreements provide a framework for countries to set shared goals, reduce emissions, and cooperate on technology, finance, and knowledge sharing. They also help raise global awareness and keep climate change high on political agendas.
International agreements can also support climate justice. Many agreements recognise that high-income countries are historically responsible for most greenhouse gas emissions, while low-income countries are often the most vulnerable to climate impacts. As a result, wealthier nations may commit to providing financial support, technology transfer, and capacity-building to help developing countries adapt and mitigate climate change.
Despite these strengths, international agreements face significant limitations. One major challenge is enforcement. Most agreements rely on voluntary commitments rather than legally binding targets. Countries may fail to meet their emissions reduction goals without facing serious consequences. Political priorities can change, and governments may withdraw support if climate action is seen as economically or politically costly.
Another limitation is unequal participation and ambition. Countries differ greatly in their levels of development, emissions, and capacity to act. Some nations argue that strict emissions targets could slow economic growth or worsen poverty. As a result, agreements often involve compromises that reduce their overall effectiveness. Global emissions may continue to rise even when agreements are in place.
International agreements also struggle with time pressure. Climate change is progressing rapidly, while negotiations and implementation often move slowly. Even when agreements are signed, it can take years for policies to be introduced and emissions reductions to take effect. This delay reduces the ability of agreements to prevent the most severe impacts of climate change.
In IB Geography, strong evaluation recognises that international agreements are necessary but not sufficient on their own. They work best when combined with national policies, technological innovation, and local action. Agreements can set direction and encourage cooperation, but real change depends on political will and long-term commitment.
Overall, international agreements can help address climate change by promoting cooperation and shared responsibility. However, their effectiveness is limited by enforcement challenges, unequal commitment, and slow implementation.
RevisionDojo helps IB Geography students evaluate international climate agreements clearly, balancing strengths and weaknesses to produce well-structured and high-level exam responses.
