Click Here for the HTML Version of This Page
MONTREAL – A critical agreement is on the verge of being reached at the UN climate change conference in Montreal today that will put Canada and the rest of the world on a path to extend the Kyoto Protocol beyond 2012, said the David Suzuki Foundation.
“The result of the past two weeks of negotiations is looking very optimistic right now,” said Dale Marshall, the Suzuki Foundation’s climate change policy analyst. “Most countries, with the exception of the United States, recognize that urgent action is required to address climate change.”
The conference, which began Nov. 28, is expected to wrap up today. Under the terms of the Kyoto Protocol, industrialized countries must reduce greenhouse gas emissions 5.2 per cent below 1990 levels by 2012. The draft text proposed today ensures there is no gap between the first and second commitment periods. The second commitment period should begin on January 1, 2013.
“Though there is growing support for action on climate change in the U.S. at the senate, state and municipal levels and in the business community, the U.S. administration has consistently blocked progress wherever possible,” said Mr. Marshall.
Studies show that only deep, long-term emission cuts will prevent the dangerous impacts of climate change.
To arrange interviews, contact:
Dale Marshall
Climate change policy analyst
David Suzuki Foundation
Cell: 613-302-9913
Morag Carter
Director, climate change program
David Suzuki Foundation
Cell: 778-386-1448