Politics of the Environment Essay 2 (original) (raw)

This essay critically examines the principles of sovereignty and common but differentiated responsibility (CBDR) in the context of the UNFCCC and the Kyoto Protocol. It highlights the tension between national interests and global environmental commitments, particularly how states can exercise sovereignty to avoid compliance with international treaties. The analysis underscores the lack of consensus on what constitutes equitable and effective environmental action, suggesting that the state-centric system may hinder meaningful global cooperation in addressing climate change.