The formal ratification of the European Union on October 7 brings the Paris climate agreement above both thresholds needed to come into force. More than 70 nations representing over 56 percent of total global warming emissions have now acceded, to use the formal word, and in 30 days it becomes international law.
(reference: http://www.loe.org/shows/segments.html?programID=16-P13-00041&segmentID=2 )
The end of 2016 saw international recognition of the importance of Sustainability as defined by United Nations. Following the success of the Paris Agreement, the outcomes have now been ratified and is now designated as being “international law”.
The recognition of this agreement has signalled that the global economy can not only recognise sustainability but that it is a significant business initiative.