COP 2 – United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
COP 2 Overview:
- Location and Dates: COP 2 took place in Geneva, Switzerland, from July 8 to July 19, 1996.
Key Outcomes and Discussions from COP 2:
- Review of Progress: COP 2 involved a review of the progress made since the first COP (COP 1) in Berlin. It provided an opportunity for parties to assess the implementation of the UNFCCC and the work undertaken by subsidiary bodies.
- Continued Negotiations: The negotiations at COP 2 were aimed at further defining and refining commitments and actions related to climate change mitigation and adaptation. It continued the work started at COP 1 in setting the stage for legally binding emission reduction targets for developed countries.
- Commitment to the Kyoto Protocol: While the Kyoto Protocol was not finalized at COP 2, it remained a central topic of discussion. Negotiations surrounding the Protocol were ongoing, with the aim of adopting legally binding targets for greenhouse gas emissions reductions.
- Creation of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM): COP 2 saw discussions that led to the creation of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). The CDM would later become one of the flexible mechanisms under the Kyoto Protocol, allowing developed countries to invest in emission reduction projects in developing countries as a way to meet their own targets.
- Increasing Engagement: COP 2 saw an increase in participation compared to COP 1, with more countries actively engaging in negotiations and discussions related to climate change.
- Preparation for COP 3: COP 2 was seen as a preparatory meeting for COP 3, which was expected to be a critical conference where the Kyoto Protocol would be adopted.
COP 2 played a crucial role in advancing international efforts to address climate change and set the stage for further negotiations and agreements. It marked another step forward in the ongoing global response to the challenges posed by climate change.
