The Kyoto
Protocol was negotiated
in Kyoto, Japan by more than 160 nations in December
1997. It
aims to reduce net emissions of greenhouse gases,
primarily carbon dioxide.
The
US agreed to reduce its average emissions 7%
from their 1990 levels during the period
2008-2012.
Other developed countries agreed to similar
reductions. The way
the reductions were achieved was up to the
individual countries. Developing countries
did not agree to meet any requirements.
It
incorporated some novel mechanisms for achieving greenhouse
gas reductions, including emissions trading,
and joint implementation. These flexible,
market-based mechanisms were included with
the urging of the US delegation.