Q6 Extended evaluation — international cooperation

Question: 'International agreements are the most effective way to manage environmental problems.' To what extent do you agree? Use examples to support your answer. [9 marks + 3 SPaG = 12 marks]

Mark scheme (Level marking):

• Level 3 (7–9): Sustained evaluation with multiple named agreements, balanced assessment of effectiveness, justified conclusion.
• Level 2 (4–6): Some evaluation, at least one named agreement, partial balance.
• Level 1 (1–3): Descriptive; limited or no agreements named.
• SPaG (3 marks): spelling, punctuation, grammar, geographical terminology

Indicative content:

• Agree: Paris Agreement 2015 — 196 parties, 1.5°C target, NDCs reviewed every 5 years; Montreal Protocol 1987 (highly successful — ozone hole healing, projected recovery by 2066); UNFCCC 1992 ('common but differentiated responsibilities'); Kyoto Protocol 1997 (binding MEDC targets)
• Disagree: Paris targets non-binding; USA withdrew under Trump (2017, 2025); Kyoto failed — global emissions rose 60% 1990–2020; enforcement weak; LEDCs need finance ($100bn/year pledge unmet until 2022)
• Alternative scales: national legislation (UK Climate Change Act 2008 — net-zero 2050) often more enforceable; local action (NI 50.6% recycling); NGO/individual behaviour
• Conclusion: International agreements set frameworks but require national legislation, market mechanisms (UK ETS carbon pricing), and behavioural change to be effective. Most successful when narrow-scope (Montreal) rather than broad (Kyoto).