Sets the benchmark
NDCs determine the scale of policy changes a country pursues, from power plant rules to vehicle standards, with direct effects on industries and households.
In plain English
Each country's own climate pledge.
Each country's homework assignment under the Paris deal: a written promise of how much pollution it will cut and how it plans to do it.
Simple example
In 2021, the United States pledged in its NDC to cut greenhouse gas emissions 50–52% below 2005 levels by 2030.
Why it matters
What the term actually changes.
Measures fairness
Comparing NDCs across countries fuels debate over whether the United States, China and others are doing a proportionate share.
How it works
The mechanics, in practice.
Country-set targets
Each government decides its own targets and policies rather than having them set by an international body.
Five-year cycle
Countries submit updated NDCs every five years, and a global stocktake assesses collective progress toward the agreement's temperature goals.
Related guide
What is the Paris Agreement, and what has the U.S. committed to?
A look at the international climate accord, how U.S. participation has shifted across administrations, and the debate over strengthening its targets.
Read the guide → Related issue brief
Should the U.S. strengthen its Paris Agreement commitments?
Americans are divided over whether Washington should deepen its pledges under the 2015 climate accord or step back from them.
Read the brief →You’ve learned the term. Now vote.
Should the United States strengthen its Paris Agreement commitments?
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