A worldwide deal has been reached to limit the use of greenhouse gases far more powerful than carbon dioxide in a major effort to fight climate change. The talks on hydrofluorocarbons, or HFCs, have been called the first test of global will since the historic Paris Agreement to cut carbon emissions was reached last year. HFCs are described as the world’s fastest-growing climate pollutant and are used in air conditioners and refrigerators. Environmental groups had hoped the deal could reduce global warming by a half-degree Celsius by the end of this century. Small island states and many African countries had pushed for quick action, saying they face the biggest threat from climate change.

Source: The Guardian October 15, 2016 06:11 UTC