The kyoto protocol the kyoto protocol is an addition to the united nations convention on climate change. countries which ratify this protocol commit to reducing their emissions of carbon dioxide and five other greenhouse gases. industrialised countries have specified reduction targets and can engage in emissions trading or what's being called "joint implementations". finally, countries can take part in a third instrument, the "clean development mechanism". a total of 141 countries have ratified the kyoto agreement. notable exceptions include the united states and australia. the agreement came into force on february 16, 2005, following ratification by russia. the kyoto protocol may seem just a small first step to dealing with climate change, but it is significant. we have to find ways to contribute to socio-economic growth and at the same time lower our emissions of greenhouse gases. but the major changes of our energy systems that are required, are not only to reduce their harmful effects, but also to address the oil shortage, the security of our energy supply, and even world peace. сократить для пересказа передать главную мысль..