Cooperation in International Environmental Treaties

• In Event: International Relations: Trade, Development and the Environment

Abstract

Why do states sign voluntary agreements and then not meet target goals? This paper looks at possible solutions to this problem with regard to the UN environmental regime, specifically the Kyoto Protocol and its iterations. It applied the concepts of collective action and the Tragedy of the Commons in relation to Common Pool Resources (Olson 1965; Hardin 1968; Ostrom et al 1999). There were two possible outcomes: ratification—non-ratification and compliance—non-compliance. Results showed that states were more likely to ratify based on normative pressures but more likely to comply based on domestic economic pressures.

Author

• Samantha M Seaman, Loyola University Chicago