Impact of Climate Change Agreements on National Environmental Policies: A Cross-National Analysis

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of climate change agreements on national environmental policies, a cross-national analysis. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study indicated that international agreements significantly influence domestic environmental policies. Countries that are parties to major climate agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, often adopt more rigorous environmental regulations and strategies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This influence is more pronounced in nations with robust political institutions and a high degree of international engagement. The analysis also indicates that the effectiveness of these agreements in shaping national policies is contingent on the presence of supportive domestic factors, such as public awareness, political will, and economic incentives. Additionally, nations with higher levels of economic development tend to implement more comprehensive environmental policies in response to international commitments. Overall, the findings suggest that while international climate agreements are crucial drivers for national policy changes, their impact is mediated by internal political and socio-economic contexts. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Policy convergence theory, diffusion of innovations theory and institutional theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the impact of climate change agreements on national environmental policies, a cross-national analysis. Practical recommendations should emphasize the importance of fostering international partnerships, capacity building, and technology transfer to support the implementation of climate-related policies at the national level. Policymakers should prioritize policy coherence, harmonization, and integration across sectors to ensure a holistic approach to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and sustainable development.