Paris climate deal: what was agreed and does it matter if US withdraws?

If it pulls out, the US would be the only country to argue that the accord demands too much of signatory nations

The Paris climate pact agreed at the end of 2015 was a historic achievement after more than two decades of failed efforts to reach a global consensus on climate change. It became legally binding about a year later, after countries responsible for 55% of global greenhouse gas emissions had ratified it.

Only two countries have not joined: Syria, which was crippled by war at the time of negotiations, and Nicaragua, which refused to sign up because it considered the deal too weak. Therefore, if the US pulls out on Thursday - as is expected - it would be the only country in the world to argue that the Paris accord demands too much of signatory nations.