Convention of Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol of 1997 CCC | Drafted in 1992 | Implemented in 1994 Kyoto Protocol | Drafted in 1997 | Implemented in 2005 Amended 2012 (Doha Amendment) | International

Description of Function/Environmental Issues Affected: The UNFCCC objective is to "stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system". The Kyoto Protocol is an international agreement linked to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which commits its Parties by setting internationally binding emission reduction targets. Recognizing that developed countries are principally responsible for the current high levels of GHG emissions in the atmosphere as a result of more than 150 years of industrial activity, the Protocol places a heavier burden on developed nations under the principle of "common but differentiated responsibilities." – UNFCCC Agency/Group Responsible for Regulation and Enforcement: UNFCC: 197 members (all Member states of the United Nations, as well as State of Palestine, Niue, Cook Islands and the European Union) Kyoto Protocol: 192 EU, Cook Islands, Niue and all UN member states, except Andorra, Canada, South Sudan and US