Iran’s parliament preparing to talk COP21

Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 5

By Dalga Khatinoglu – Trend:

Iran’s parliament is to discuss the country’s commitments under the Paris climate deal, known as the COP21 deal, signed last December by 55 nations, which share above 50 percent of the CO2 emissions.

Iran’s Energy Minister Hamid Chitchian has said Iran may face sanctions stricter than those imposed on nuclear program in 2012 if the country doesn’t commit to its obligations.

Iran has committed to decrease CO2 emissions by 4 percent in 14 years itself by investing $17.5 billion. By absorbing further $35 billion of international investments, Iran says it can reduce CO2 emissions by 12 percent.

If Iran spends a total $52.5 billion, its emissions would fall by 230.4 tons cumulatively, and with realization of only $17.5 billion of domestic investment, the figure would stand at 76.8 tons by 2030.

CO2 emissions in Iran during the fiscal year to March 2015

COP21 agreement of course hasn’t threatened any country with sanctions, but after its signing by 55 nations, other major CO2 producers in the world may be punished.

Global carbon dioxide emissions in 2014 were about 35,900 tons. Iran ranks 10th among the major CO2 producers in the world.

The Iranian Cabinet of Ministers, headed by President Hassan Rouhani, ratified the Paris climate deal (COP21) in July and submitted the bill to the parliament.

Iranian MPs rejected the bill first time due to some needed amendments, but are preparing to discuss it in coming weeks.

Iran should decide on COP21 before November 2016.