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.