The 2009 Copenhagen Climate Conference (COP15)

The Copenhagen Conference (COP15 to the UNFCCC) ran 7–18 December 2009 in Copenhagen, Denmark. Goal: secure a global agreement on reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Key Points

• Attendance: ~115 world leaders, experts, NGOs.
• Focus: Binding emissions targets to succeed the Kyoto Protocol (expiring 2012).
• Outcome: Non-binding Copenhagen Accord—voluntary pledges, $100B/year climate finance by 2020.
• Controversy: Seen as lacking ambition; deep divisions between developed/developing nations.
• Legacy: Raised urgency; paved way for 2015 Paris Agreement.