This article presents cornerstone environmental agreements that define the global response to climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development. These texts are legally binding or norm-setting and form the backbone of environmental law, international reporting, and climate diplomacy.
For translators and policy communicators, precision in terminology and reference to official instrument names is essential—especially when working on NDCs, GBF targets, project proposals, or environmental impact reports.
Each instrument is listed with its official English and French title, a brief contextual summary, and links to authoritative sources. For key EN–FR terminology and phrasing, see our dedicated Glossary.
Core Environmental & Climate Agreements – Quick Reference for Translators
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) – Convention-cadre des Nations Unies sur les changements climatiques (CCNUCC)
The foundational treaty for climate action, adopted at the 1992 Rio Earth Summit. Establishes the framework for global efforts to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations. It set the stage for subsequent protocols and agreements, including the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement. Often referenced in NDCs and adaptation finance frameworks.
Access the UNFCCC website.
Kyoto Protocol – Protocole de Kyoto à la Convention-cadre des Nations Unies sur les changements climatiques (1997)
First legally binding climate agreement under the UNFCCC. Sets quantified emission reduction targets for developed countries and introduces carbon market mechanisms such as the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM).
Access the UNFCCC Kyoto Protocol Page.
Doha Amendment to the Kyoto Protocol – Amendement de Doha au Protocole de Kyoto
Adopted in 2012, the Doha Amendment established the second commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol (2013–2020), with updated emission reduction targets for Annex I Parties. While its practical implementation was limited due to delays in ratification, it remains a legally binding instrument and a transitional milestone toward the Paris Agreement. It also amended annexes to reflect updated Party lists.
Access the UNFCCC Doha Amendment page.
Paris Agreement – Accord de Paris (2015)
Adopted under the UNFCCC, it is the most recent binding climate accord. Aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C and pursue efforts toward 1.5°C. Relies on nationally determined contributions (NDCs) and emphasizes transparency, climate finance, and resilience.
Access the UNFCCC Paris Agreement page.
Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention) – Convention sur les zones humides d’importance internationale (Convention de Ramsar)
Adopted in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran, this convention provides the framework for national action and international cooperation on the conservation and wise use of wetlands. Unlike many treaties, the Ramsar Convention is not under the UN system, but is deeply aligned with the SDGs, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and disaster risk reduction agendas. It introduces the concept of “wise use” and manages the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance.
Access the Ramsar website.
Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) – Convention sur la diversité biologique (CDB)
Also adopted at the 1992 Earth Summit. Focuses on conservation of biological diversity, sustainable use of its components, and fair sharing of benefits. The CBD is the foundation for targets like the Aichi Biodiversity Targets and the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF).
Access the CBD website.
Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety – Protocole de Cartagena sur la prévention des risques biotechnologiques (2000)
A protocol to the CBD, it governs the movement of living modified organisms (LMOs) resulting from biotechnology, particularly across borders. Frequently used in environmental risk assessments and biosafety regulations.
Access the Cartagena Protocol page on the CBD website.
Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-Sharing – Protocole de Nagoya sur l’accès aux ressources génétiques et le partage juste et équitable des avantages (2010)
Also under the CBD, this protocol regulates access to genetic resources and equitable sharing of benefits. Key in translation involving indigenous rights, biotechnology, and patent law.
Access the Nagoya Protocol page on the CBD website.
Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) – Cadre mondial de la biodiversité de Kunming-Montréal (2022)
Adopted at COP15 of the Convention on Biological Diversity, the GBF sets the global strategy for halting biodiversity loss by 2030 and restoring ecosystems by 2050. It replaces the Aichi Targets and includes 23 targets and 4 long-term goals. Translators and drafters will encounter the GBF in national biodiversity strategies (NBSAPs), environmental funding applications, and cross-cutting SDG frameworks. Its terminology overlaps with the CBD, climate adaptation, indigenous rights, and ecosystem services.
Access the GBF page on the CBD wesbite.
United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) – Convention des Nations Unies sur la lutte contre la désertification (CNULD)
Adopted in 1994, the only binding international agreement linking environment and development to sustainable land management. Its terminology intersects with food security, drought resilience, and climate adaptation.
Access the UNCCD website.
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) – Convention sur le commerce international des espèces de faune et de flore sauvages menacées d’extinction
Regulates trade in endangered species through permits and appendices. Frequently cited in customs, wildlife crime, and biodiversity reporting. Though older (1973), it’s still central to modern conservation practice.
Access the CITES website.
Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes – Convention de Bâle sur le contrôle des mouvements transfrontières de déchets dangereux et de leur élimination (1989)
Monitors and restricts international transport of hazardous waste, including electronic waste. Crucial for translators working in circular economy, shipping regulations, and environmental justice.
Access the Basel Convention website.
Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants – Convention de Stockholm sur les polluants organiques persistants (2001)
Seeks to eliminate or restrict the production and use of persistent organic pollutants (POPs), which remain in the environment for long periods and pose risks to human health.
Access the POPs Convention website.
Looking for terminology? Consult our dedicated EN–FR Glossary.
Related resources
– Key Environmental Terms EN–FR Glossary (terminology and phrasing)
– Fluent in Global Frameworks (human rights, migration, environment and more) coming soon…