Question: explain why are binding treaties to abate emissions between groups of nations are often difficult to achieve

Emissions reduction treaties between nations have been proposed as a key method with which to tackle climate change and its negative impacts. One such treaty is the Paris Agreement. Adopted by 197 nations in 2015, the deal aims to substantially reduce carbon emissions and to limit the global temperature increase in this century to 2 degrees Celsius. The Paris Agreement includes commitments from all nations to reduce their emissions and work together to adapt to the impacts of climate change and calls on a strengthening of commitments over time. The agreement provides a pathway for developed nations to assist developing nations in their climate mitigation and adaptation efforts. Nations can set their own 'nationally determined contributions' towards emissions reductions that reflect their capabilities, level of economic development, and contribution to emissions over time.

Figure 1: Outcomes and payoffs for the climate strategy game. Developed Developed Abate No Change Abate No Change Emissions Developed countries reductions that free ride on Good Best developing Abate Abate successfully moderates climate countries emissions change reductions Good Worst Developing Developing Developing countries free Worst Bad ride on developed No emissions No Change No Change countries reductions emissions Best Bad reductions