IASS Fellow Sparks Debate: Paris Agreement Not Stringent Enough

Senior Fellow at the IASS, Craig Morris, has sparked debate with his views on the Paris Agreement and climate research. The author of 'Global Energy Transition' and 'Energy Democracy', Morris suggests that climate research is becoming a matter of belief and criticises the IPCC's approach.

Morris' comments come amidst an ongoing fight over climate change principles, particularly in Germany where the Energiewende consensus must be continually defended. The Paris Agreement, while encouraging emission reductions and transparent reporting, may not be stringent enough, according to Morris and others.

The 'Berlin Circle', a group of German parliamentarians, has submitted a paper questioning the scientific consensus on climate change. They argue that climate change could have benefits, such as an ice-free Northwest Passage. However, some politicians, like those in North-Rhine/Westphalia's new coalition government, are considering stepping away from climate commitments. Meanwhile, the populist party AfD contains outright climate change denialists.

Morris' views are not universally accepted. The Paris Agreement was a significant step forward, encouraging countries to reduce emissions. Yet, Trump's withdrawal from the agreement may have emboldened climate skeptics in Germany to voice their opinions more openly.

The debate over climate change and its solutions continues, with Morris' views adding to the ongoing discussion. While the Paris Agreement has encouraged emission reductions, some argue it may not go far enough. The fight to defend climate commitments, like the Energiewende in Germany, must navigate differing opinions and political pressures.