Step 1: Understanding the Kyoto Protocol
The Kyoto Protocol is an international treaty that extends the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and commits its parties to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, based on the premise that global warming exists and human-made CO2 emissions have caused it.
Step 2: Commitments under the Kyoto Protocol
The Kyoto Protocol was adopted in Kyoto, Japan, in December 1997 and entered into force in February 2005.
It legally binds developed countries and economies in transition to emission reduction targets. The principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities” recognizes that developed countries are principally responsible for the current high levels of GHG emissions in the atmosphere.
Step 3: Comparing the Options
Option A: Refers to transitioning investment portfolios to net-zero GHG emissions by 2050, which is not the commitment under the Kyoto Protocol but aligns more with current initiatives like the Paris Agreement.
Option B: This option aligns with the Kyoto Protocol’s commitment to limit and reduce GHG emissions according to individual targets.
Option C: This option aligns with the Paris Agreement’s goal rather than the Kyoto Protocol.
Step 4: Verification with ESG Investing References
The Kyoto Protocol's main aim is to control emissions of the main anthropogenic (human-emitted) greenhouse gases in ways that reflect underlying national differences in greenhouse gas emissions, wealth, and capacity to make the reductions: "The Kyoto Protocol commits its Parties by setting internationally binding emission reduction targets".
Conclusion: Signatories of the Kyoto Protocol are committed to limiting and reducing their greenhouse gas emissions in accordance with agreed individual targets.
Answer: B. Limit and reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in accordance with agreed individual targets
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