New rules, old games

Considering the fact that global emissions are rising, and emerging countries are expected to contribute to emission reductions, the challenge for a country like India is to keep a healthy balance between national developmental needs and international obligations to account for the emissions. The Paris Agreement does assure flexibility to those developing countries that need it, according to their capacity. However, two decisions taken in Katowice would determine the extent of the flexibility available to India. The first relates to the year when all countries have to begin furnishing their national inventory of emissions, and other actions, under the new arrangements. The second relates to the retention of flexibility by developed countries in the accounting of their actions for international review.