The Wrong Solution at the Right Time: The Failure of the Kyoto Protocol on Climate Change

This article argues that the Kyoto Protocol on climate change is a fundamentally flawed agreement that set back solutions on climate change by two decades. Using a systematic framework focused on compliance, efficiency, and effectiveness, I analyze the Kyoto Protocol and argue it is a clear case of institutional failure, with the design itself bearing substantial blame for this outcome. The study points to how particular features of the Protocol—its short time frame for action, binding targets, emission reduction measures, and provision for future commitment periods—have resulted in short‐sighted behavior by member states and path‐dependent structures that failed to make a substantial impact on the climate problem. Related Articles Viniegra , Ibarrarán , María Eugenia , and Salimah Mónica Cossens González . 2007 . . Politics & Policy 35 (): 684 ‐ 701 . http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2007.00080.x/abstract Below , Amy . 2007 . . Politics & Policy 35 (): 702 ‐ 715 . http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2007.00081.x/abstract Rugeley , Cynthia R. , and John David Gerlach . 2012 . . Politics & Policy 40 (): 444 ‐ 470 . http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2012.00352.x/abstract Related Media Rayner , Steven . 2011 . . YouTube . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bcxL7jN4akw . 2007 . . Gamesforchange.org . http://www.gamesforchange.org/play/climate‐challenge/