What do Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) represent in the context of climate action, according to the passage?

Read the following passage and answer the questions below. Certain words are highlighted to help you in answering questions. Climate change is a pressing global crisis with devastating consequences. The evidence overwhelmingly supports the fact that human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, are driving the Earth's climate to alarming levels of warming. This is evident in the increasing frequency of extreme weather events like heatwaves, droughts, wildfires, hurricanes, and rising sea levels. Addressing climate change requires immediate and concerted efforts on both international and national fronts. The Paris Agreement, established in 2015, is a pivotal international agreement that unites countries in the fight against climate change. It commits signatory nations to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with a more ambitious goal of 1.5 degrees Celsius. Under the Paris Agreement, countries have submitted their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), outlining their specific climate action plans and emissions reduction targets. These commitments encompass a range of actions, including reducing emissions, transitioning to renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, protecting forests, and enhancing climate resilience. At the national level, countries are enacting tailored climate policies and initiatives . These policies often focus on expanding the use of renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydropower. Governments are incentivizing renewable energy adoption through subsidies and ambitious targets. Energy efficiency is another critical aspect of climate policies, with regulations covering appliances, buildings, and transportation systems. Carbon pricing mechanisms, like carbon taxes and cap-and-trade systems, provide economic incentives for emissions reduction. Efforts to combat deforestation and promote reforestation are vital for carbon capture. Many nations are implementing strategies to preserve existing forests and plant new trees. Climate ______________ strategies are crucial for preparing communities for climate change impacts. These include building resilient infrastructure, protecting coastlines from sea-level rise, and developing early warning systems for extreme weather. The transportation sector, a major emitter of greenhouse gases, is also undergoing transformation. Many countries are promoting electric vehicles (EVs) through incentives, expanding charging infrastructure, and enforcing stricter emissions standards. Nevertheless, significant challenges remain. Economic and political obstacles hinder ambitious climate policies in some countries. Transitioning away from fossil fuels presents complex challenges. Achieving international cooperation and ensuring compliance with the Paris Agreement are ongoing struggles. Furthermore, climate change's effects are already felt globally, necessitating adaptation efforts that must keep pace with mitigation strategies. This involves investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, improving water resource management, and safeguarding vulnerable communities. In conclusion, addressing climate change is an urgent and multifaceted challenge that requires cooperation across all sectors of society. Governments, businesses, and civil society must work together to accelerate climate solutions, deploy clean technologies, and advocate for bold climate action. The climate crisis demands decisive and ambitious measures to secure a healthier and more sustainable planet for current and future generations.