Dispute resolution under the Kyoto Protocol

The Kyoto Protocol is designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, while al lowing Parties to implement trading mechanisms to achieve such reductions. A compliance regime is necessary for the success of the Protocol. Given the Protocol's complexity and expected participation by non-state actors, any dispute settlement mechanism designed for such a compliance system must be flexible and provide predictability to its participants. This Article draws on existing dispute settlement models to recommend a suitable settlement m echanism It suggests a three-tiered dispute settlement system combining asp ects of an enforceable dispute resolution process, strong sanctions for non compliance, and opportunities for arbitrating disputes that arise between p rivate entities.