The Kyoto Protocol: A Global Effort to Combat Climate Change

How many nations signed the Kyoto Protocol in 1997?

A) 191 nations, not including the United States

B) 191 nations including the United States

Answer:

A) 191 nations, not including the United States

The Kyoto Protocol, signed by 191 nations in 1997, was a landmark international treaty aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions to combat global warming. This protocol set targets for countries to reduce their emissions of six key greenhouse gases.

The countries that signed on agreed to work towards reducing their collective emissions by at least 5% from the levels recorded in 1990. While the United States did not ratify the protocol, it was still a significant step in global efforts to address climate change.

By setting binding targets for emissions reductions and promoting international cooperation on environmental issues, the Kyoto Protocol paved the way for further climate agreements and highlighted the urgent need for countries to work together in the fight against climate change.