In other words, it is "an intergovernmental document intended as legally binding with a primary stated purpose of preventing or managing human impacts on natural resources.
[3] Levels of government within a nation may impede each other about climate change (for example) due to opposing views or parties,[7] making implementation more difficult and impacting external relationships.
[10] One example is the use of sanctions: under the Montreal Protocol, signatories were forbidden to purchase chlorofluorocarbons from non-signatories, in order to prevent any windfall benefits.
Differential obligations are also seen in the Kyoto Protocol and can encourage wider participation, where every country have very different targets mainly based on their development.
With little administrative force or actual power, protocols succeed in increasing government concern, enhancing the contractual environment, and heightening capacity through transfer of assets.
Yet as long as sovereignty is intact, environmental protocols will not affect changes in the face of state or public apathy, guarantee national action, or materialize overnight.
Finally, countries may lack motivation to change their environmental policies due to conflict with other interests, especially economic prosperity.
The United Nations is involved in MEAs worldwide on a number of issues, including biological diversity, chemicals and waste, and climate and the atmosphere.
[17] Australia is noted for its wide variety of animal species and diverse environment, which includes beaches, deserts and mountains,[18] and climate change is a major concern.
Australia's proximity to Antarctica raises concerns about sea-level rise and changes in ocean currents which influence climate.
[19] Canada has taken an initiative due to the country's variety of natural resources, climates and populated areas, all of which can contribute to environmental stress.
[21] The United States has committed to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, and global negotiations on mercury.