The term ‘Intended Nationally Determined Contribution’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of:

The Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) were submitted by countries before the Paris Agreement (2015) as their initial climate action plans to combat climate change. These documents outlined how each country intended to contribute to global efforts in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and adapting to climate impacts.

These were preliminary pledges, meaning they were not legally binding commitments but rather expressions of intent.

Each country independently decided its contribution based on its capabilities, national circumstances, and priorities. Unlike top-down approaches in past climate treaties, INDCs followed a bottom-up approach.

The plans outlined specific measures countries intended to take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase renewable energy use, improve energy efficiency, and adapt to climate change impacts.