From Kyoto to Paris: A process tracing case study of environmental regimes

Abstract: This is a case study examines a possible regime shift between the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement. The study is using a theory consuming approach, with process tracing as the main instrument of analyzation. Using Keohane & Victor’s theory on regime complex, the two different regimes are highlighted: Kyoto and Paris. Applying Abbot, Green and Keohane’s theory on Organizational Ecology, help with providing interesting insights as to the causes of the shift in global environmental governance. Looking at causes for shifts in the regime, the private sector plays a central role. A framework is built by lending a model from natural science on Regime Shift, by Folke et.al. Based on the model, process tracing can be used which identifies several conferences in between Kyoto and Paris. COP 20 in Lima, COP 17 in Durban, and COP 15 in Copenhagen are shortly examined, and defined using the theories states above. The study focuses on a macro perspective on the governance of the Conferences of Parties.