Simulation of international negotiations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions

David Hastings, Eckerd College, From the On the Cutting Edge activity collection

In this activity, students engage in a simulation of the international negotiation process in order to convey how the international community is responding to climate change. Participants learn firsthand about the interests of different countries and the range of policy responses to mitigate future climate change.

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Notes from our reviewers

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In the overview lecture about the current status of global climate change negotiations, educator should supplement with most recent developments and examples of summits. Showing a video of an international negotiation might be a nice wrap-up for the course module. Update the worksheet with the most up-to-date resources; a lot of the relevant information can be found here: [http://unfccc.int/]. High school educators may want to have groups of students work together to represent a nation.
Activity prompts students to do their own research about the current status of climate change negotiations and standpoints. Some examples are out of date (2006), but this is irrelevant since the activity itself centers on current research. However, instructor may want to update the instructions and replace old examples with recent ones. Activity may reveal misconceptions about energy use and policy among learners and provide educator with chance to correct them. Provides very detailed and clear instructions and sources for supplemental information URLs and a book list. To get the most recent information, use the provided links to update the information. Comment from expert scientist: relies on top science at the time of the associated COP (COP12)
Engaging activity that allows students to explore viewpoints and perspectives that may be different than their own. Students of different learning styles will be engaged with the research of information, report writing, negotiating and presenting of materials. Activity leans heavily on independent research by students. Important emphasis in effective oral communication and persuasion.