Before the establishment of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
(UNFCCC) in 1992, there were several important developments related to climate change and environmental policy that laid the groundwork for the Convention. Below are some key events related to climate change and environmental policy that occurred between 1950 and 1980:
In 1962, Rachel Carson publishes her book 'Silent Spring', which raises public awareness about the environmental impacts of pesticide use and inspires the modern environmental
movement. Rachel Carson's book 'Silent Spring', published in 1962, was a groundbreaking work that exposed the environmental and health risks of pesticides, particularly DDT. The book documented the widespread use of pesticides in agriculture and their harmful effects on the environment and human health. Carson argued that the indiscriminate use of pesticides was causing a decline in bird populations and other wildlife, as well as contaminating the air, water, and soil. She warned that the use of pesticides was creating a 'silent spring' where the sounds of nature were being silenced due to the loss of birds and other creatures. Carson's book sparked a public debate about the use of pesticides and their potential risks. It also led to increased public awareness of the need for environmental protection and the dangers of pollution. The book is widely credited with launching the modern environmental movement and inspiring the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States. 'Silent Spring' remains a classic of environmental literature and a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting the natural world for future generations.
In 1967, The United Nations forms the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) to study the potential impacts of human activities on the Earth's climate. The UNIPCC is a scientific body endorsed by the United Nations in 1988 to provide policymakers with regular scientific assessments on climate change, its impacts, and potential future risks, as well as to provide guidance on possible response options. The IPCC is made up of thousands of scientists from around the world who volunteer their time to review and synthesize the latest research on climate change. The IPCC's assessments are based on a comprehensive review of the scientific literature, and are written and reviewed by experts from a wide range of disciplines, including
climate science, economics, and social sciences.The IPCC's assessments are published in a series of reports, which are widely regarded as the most authoritative and comprehensive
assessments of climate change available. The reports are used by governments, policymakers, and other stakeholders to inform their decision-making on climate change mitigation and adaptation. The IPCC has played a key role in raising awareness of the risks and impacts of climate change, and in shaping international policy on climate change. The IPCC's work has contributed to the development of international agreements such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement, which aim to limit global warming and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
In 1970, The first Earth Day is celebrated on April 22, marking the beginning of the modern environmental movement. The first Earth Day was a massive event, with millions of Americans participating in rallies, demonstrations, and other activities to raise awareness of environmental issues. The event helped to galvanize public support for environmental protection and led to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the passage of several landmark environmental laws, including the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act.
In 1972, the United Nations hosted the first major international conference on the environment in Stockholm, Sweden, which led to the creation of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). It is a program of the United Nations (UN) that was established to coordinate environmental activities and assist countries in implementing environmentally sound policies and practices. The mission of UNEP is to provide leadership and encourage partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing, and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations. UNEP works with governments, non-governmental organizations, and other UN agencies to address a wide range of environmental issues, including climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and the sustainable use of natural resources.
In 1973, The Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC) imposes an oil
embargo on countries that support Israel, leading to a global energy crisis and increased
interest in alternative energy sources.
In 1979, the first World Climate Conference was held in Geneva, Switzerland, which led to the establishment of the World Climate Programme by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that focuses on meteorology (the study of weather and climate) and related fields. Its mission is to facilitate international cooperation in the collection, exchange, and use of meteorological, hydrological, and climatological information and to promote sustainable development and the safety of life and property.
The WMO's main areas of focus include:
1. Weather forecasting and warning: The WMO helps countries to develop and maintain
weather forecasting and warning systems, which are critical for protecting lives and property from extreme weather events such as hurricanes, floods, and droughts.
2. Climate monitoring and prediction: The WMO coordinates global efforts to monitor and
understand the Earth's climate, including the collection and analysis of climate data, the
development of climate models, and the provision of climate predictions and projections.
3. Environmental research and assessment: The WMO conducts and facilitates research on the Earth's environment, including the atmosphere, oceans, and land surfaces. It also assesses the state of the global environment and provides scientific advice to governments and other organizations.
4. Capacity building and training: The WMO provides training and capacity building programs for meteorological and hydrological services in developing countries, helping to improve their ability to provide weather and climate services to their populations.
Overall, the WMO plays a critical role in helping countries to understand and manage the
impacts of weather and climate on human societies and the natural environment
In 1980,The United States passes the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), also known as the Superfund, which provides funding for the cleanup of hazardous waste sites.