Assessing the impact of international environmental agreements on national policies: A comparative analysis across regions

Precious Oluwaseun Okedele 1, *, Onoriode Reginald Aziza 2, Portia Oduro 3 and Akinwale Omowumi Ishola 4

1 Independent Researcher, New Jersey, USA.
2 Independent Researcher, Lagos Nigeria.
3 Energy Law Center, Paul M. Hebert Law Center, Louisiana State University, USA.
4 Department of Sustainability, Eastern Illinois University Charleston Illinois, USA.
 
Review
Open Access Research Journal of Science and Technology, 2024, 12(02), 112–123.
Article DOI: 10.53022/oarjst.2024.12.2.0144
Publication history: 
Received on 27 October 2024; revised on 01 December 2024; accepted on 05 December 2024
 
Abstract: 
This study evaluates the influence of international environmental agreements (IEAs) on the formulation and implementation of national environmental policies across different regions. Through a comparative analysis, it examines how countries adapt their environmental policies in response to commitments under IEAs, highlighting the factors that contribute to both alignment and divergence between international mandates and domestic policy actions. The research considers key agreements such as the Kyoto Protocol, the Paris Agreement, and the Convention on Biological Diversity, analyzing their impacts across regions with varying socio-economic and political structures. Using a mixed-method approach, including quantitative policy analysis and qualitative case studies, the study reveals significant regional variations in the effectiveness of IEAs. High-income regions often demonstrate greater compliance due to advanced regulatory frameworks and resources, while developing regions face challenges linked to economic constraints and competing priorities. The findings suggest that regional cooperation, financial support mechanisms, and capacity-building efforts are critical for aligning national policies with international standards, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This analysis underscores the role of adaptive governance and multilateral support in strengthening global environmental goals and highlights policy areas that require targeted support to bridge the gap between international objectives and local implementation.
 
Keywords: 
Environmental policies; Comparative analysis; Paris Agreement; Regional compliance; Adaptive governance
 
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