Tar Sands tailings poisons muskeg and nearby First Nations community | rabble.ca by Ben Powless with pictures.
The trip out to the tar sands tailings pond reminded me of other recent trips to places where indigenous people were trying to survive.
It recalled for me a trip out to the Russian Arctic earlier this year to visit a group of Saami (Indigenous) reindeer herders struggling to maintain their way of life, and also the work I did last year with a group of Amazonian peoples who were trying to stop oil companies and oil spills in the Peruvian jungles.
But in the end this was far worse, even compared with those two dire situations, and it was being promoted by the Canadian and Alberta governments.
We left on a pair of four wheelers in the afternoon, embracing the freezing temperatures and snow for about six hours to gather footage of what I was promised would be a shocking find. And it was -- when we finally arrived on the site of the Canadian Natural Resources Ltd. -- CNRL -- tailings pond (which, at about five-km long and one-km wide, was more of a lake), we saw tailings being released on the opposite shore, flowing out and covering the muskeg and bush underneath. I was accompanied by Mike Orr, a councillor in the community of Fort McKay and avid hunter and trapper, and his daughter.
Here we were, standing on traplines and hunting trails that remain in use by members of the Fort McKay First Nation, as the toxic waste covered many hectares with an oily ooze...
Monday, November 29, 2010
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Planet Earth We Have A Problem
Planet Earth We Have A Problem
Video 2008 in Sweden.
Planet Earth We Have A Problem
Beyond the Tipping Point: Feedback Dynamics
and the onset of Runaway Climate Change
David Wasdell delivered this copiously illustrated presentation on the 29th June 2008 to the Strategy-Planning workshop of the Tällberg Forum in the heart of Sweden. It was subsequently recorded in studio conditions and beautifully produced by the staff team of the Tällberg Foundation who also added an introduction by their Chairman, Bo Ekman.
After a basic introduction to climate dynamics, the powerful feedback system, already accelerating climate change, is analysed. It is argued that we have already passed the tipping point that marks the onset of runaway climate change, and are fast approaching the critical threshold beyond which the behaviour becomes unstoppable. The presentation concludes with an outline of the global strategy now urgently required to re-stabilise the life-support system of Planet Earth.
Video 2008 in Sweden.
Planet Earth We Have A Problem
Beyond the Tipping Point: Feedback Dynamics
and the onset of Runaway Climate Change
David Wasdell delivered this copiously illustrated presentation on the 29th June 2008 to the Strategy-Planning workshop of the Tällberg Forum in the heart of Sweden. It was subsequently recorded in studio conditions and beautifully produced by the staff team of the Tällberg Foundation who also added an introduction by their Chairman, Bo Ekman.
After a basic introduction to climate dynamics, the powerful feedback system, already accelerating climate change, is analysed. It is argued that we have already passed the tipping point that marks the onset of runaway climate change, and are fast approaching the critical threshold beyond which the behaviour becomes unstoppable. The presentation concludes with an outline of the global strategy now urgently required to re-stabilise the life-support system of Planet Earth.
Bali and Beyond:HOC 2007 Briefing-Scary
Bali and Beyond
This leading edge scientific update was delivered to a packed audience in the House of Commons in June 2007. It was released in the approach to the Bali Meeting of the UNFCCC because it presents material not yet addressed by the IPCC, but which is absolutely critical to the decision-making process at and beyond that event.
Over the last two years there has been a profound shift in the scientific understanding of the behaviour of the earth's climate system. Although some specific feedback mechanisms were included in the more advanced climate models, the analysis of climate dynamics as a whole has proceeded far beyond that portrayed in the latest IPCC Assessment Report. It was not taken into consideration in the Stern Report, in the formulation of the Climate Bill currently before the UK Parliament, or in the process of target-setting of the present round of International negotiations.
Almost all of the systems known to affect climate change are now in a state of net positive (amplifying) feedback. Each feedback mechanism accelerates its own specific process. The output of each feedback is an input to all other feedbacks, so the system as a whole constitutes an interactive set of mutually reinforcing sub-systems.
This "second order" feedback system accelerates the rate of climate change and faces us with the possibility of a "tipping point" in the whole earth system. If we go beyond the point where human intervention can no longer stabilise the system, then we precipitate unstoppable runaway climate change.
The implication is that climate change is non-linear. Once set in motion it is acceleratingly self-perpetuating. There is then only a small time-window within which human intervention has any (rapidly diminishing) chance of halting the process and returning the system to a stable state. Failure to act effectively within that window of opportunity would inevitably precipitate cataclysmic change on a par with the five mass extinction events known to have obliterated almost all life on earth.
Strategically we have to generate a negative feedback intervention of sufficient power to overcome the now active positive feedback process. We then have to maintain its effectiveness during the remaining period of rising temperature, while temperature-driven positive feedbacks continue to operate. That is an extraordinarily difficult task, out of all comparison with
This leading edge scientific update was delivered to a packed audience in the House of Commons in June 2007. It was released in the approach to the Bali Meeting of the UNFCCC because it presents material not yet addressed by the IPCC, but which is absolutely critical to the decision-making process at and beyond that event.
Over the last two years there has been a profound shift in the scientific understanding of the behaviour of the earth's climate system. Although some specific feedback mechanisms were included in the more advanced climate models, the analysis of climate dynamics as a whole has proceeded far beyond that portrayed in the latest IPCC Assessment Report. It was not taken into consideration in the Stern Report, in the formulation of the Climate Bill currently before the UK Parliament, or in the process of target-setting of the present round of International negotiations.
Almost all of the systems known to affect climate change are now in a state of net positive (amplifying) feedback. Each feedback mechanism accelerates its own specific process. The output of each feedback is an input to all other feedbacks, so the system as a whole constitutes an interactive set of mutually reinforcing sub-systems.
This "second order" feedback system accelerates the rate of climate change and faces us with the possibility of a "tipping point" in the whole earth system. If we go beyond the point where human intervention can no longer stabilise the system, then we precipitate unstoppable runaway climate change.
The implication is that climate change is non-linear. Once set in motion it is acceleratingly self-perpetuating. There is then only a small time-window within which human intervention has any (rapidly diminishing) chance of halting the process and returning the system to a stable state. Failure to act effectively within that window of opportunity would inevitably precipitate cataclysmic change on a par with the five mass extinction events known to have obliterated almost all life on earth.
Strategically we have to generate a negative feedback intervention of sufficient power to overcome the now active positive feedback process. We then have to maintain its effectiveness during the remaining period of rising temperature, while temperature-driven positive feedbacks continue to operate. That is an extraordinarily difficult task, out of all comparison with
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Rumbo a Cancún-Indigeneous Representation
Rumbo a Cancún: - Decolonizing Environmentalism
This is the first of many blog posts that I will be posting from México introducing these unlikely negotiators and observers where, as Martin Khor said after Copenhagen last year, we are "not only negotiating the future of humanity and the earth but also the future distribution of the GDP of the world."
We are calling the delegation the "Grassroots Solutions to Climate Justice" Alliance for North America. We are Indigenous and Native peoples from North America, youth and young people from frontline and fenceline communities, economic and racial justice representatives from the same (where incinerators, pipelines, oil rigs, refineries, chemical plants, power plants, uranium mines, nuclear power plants, coal mines, in Indian Country and Appalachia, in urban America and the Gulf Coast, are located), and environmental justice organizations and leaders.
The blog posts will include updates from the inside of the negotiations, but also updates from members of our delegations who are on the road, meeting with indigenous and small farmer organizations and communities along the way, from caravans with La Via Campesina, that originated in Chiapas, Acapulco and other points.
It is fitting that we begin the coverage with a profile of the Indigenous Environmental Network, or IEN. At home in the United States, most people are preparing meals and gathering together families of all kinds for what is called Thankgiving, but is also called Thanks-taken, or Indigenous People's Genocide Day, or Indigenous People's Day of Mourning. Where I grew up, in the Northeast, the myth of
This is the first of many blog posts that I will be posting from México introducing these unlikely negotiators and observers where, as Martin Khor said after Copenhagen last year, we are "not only negotiating the future of humanity and the earth but also the future distribution of the GDP of the world."
We are calling the delegation the "Grassroots Solutions to Climate Justice" Alliance for North America. We are Indigenous and Native peoples from North America, youth and young people from frontline and fenceline communities, economic and racial justice representatives from the same (where incinerators, pipelines, oil rigs, refineries, chemical plants, power plants, uranium mines, nuclear power plants, coal mines, in Indian Country and Appalachia, in urban America and the Gulf Coast, are located), and environmental justice organizations and leaders.
The blog posts will include updates from the inside of the negotiations, but also updates from members of our delegations who are on the road, meeting with indigenous and small farmer organizations and communities along the way, from caravans with La Via Campesina, that originated in Chiapas, Acapulco and other points.
It is fitting that we begin the coverage with a profile of the Indigenous Environmental Network, or IEN. At home in the United States, most people are preparing meals and gathering together families of all kinds for what is called Thankgiving, but is also called Thanks-taken, or Indigenous People's Genocide Day, or Indigenous People's Day of Mourning. Where I grew up, in the Northeast, the myth of
Logistic:D4WW
Logistic
The Dialogs for Water and Climate Change will be held from December 1st to 6th, 2010, during the 16th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 16), in the Fiesta Americana Coral Beach hotel, in Cancun, Mexico. As these events will be held outside the COP 16 venue, to take part you only need to register through this website and have your registration confirmed by the organizers. On December 8th, a high-level panel will be held on the Mexican Pavilion in Cancun Messe, one of the official venues of COP 16, which is open only to accredited COP 16 participants. This section will provide details on how to take part, including hotel accommodation and visa requirements to enter Mexico.
The Dialogs for Water and Climate Change will be held from December 1st to 6th, 2010, during the 16th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 16), in the Fiesta Americana Coral Beach hotel, in Cancun, Mexico. As these events will be held outside the COP 16 venue, to take part you only need to register through this website and have your registration confirmed by the organizers. On December 8th, a high-level panel will be held on the Mexican Pavilion in Cancun Messe, one of the official venues of COP 16, which is open only to accredited COP 16 participants. This section will provide details on how to take part, including hotel accommodation and visa requirements to enter Mexico.
Cancún is indeed a nest of serpents – sitting in a vast, toxic rubbish dump | Luis Hernandez Navarro | Comment is free | The Guardian
Cancún is indeed a nest of serpents – sitting in a vast, toxic rubbish dump Luis Hernandez Navarro Comment is free The Guardian
Cancún is indeed a nest of serpents – sitting in a vast, toxic rubbish dumpLet's hope the UN climate change convention will expose the devastation wreaked on Mexico by its government's negligence
Share Comments (13)
Luis Hernandez Navarro guardian.co.uk, Thursday 25 November 2010 21.30 GMT Article historyNext week, Mexico hosts the UN convention on climate change in Cancún. It is ironic that such an important conference on the environment should take place in a country whose environment has been devastated, and in a city that exemplifies everything you should not do if you wish to protect the environment.
Cancún the city perfectly illustrates the light and shade of uncontrolled development; it is an emblem of both modernity and backwardness. Cancún – "nest of serpents" in the pre-Hispanic language – was born four decades ago from a government decision. A place of great natural beauty – a deserted island separated from the mainland by narrow channels, a series of lagoons, and a stretch of coast surrounded by virgin rainforest and pristine beaches – it was decided that it should be transformed into the country's most important tourist attraction.
Hundreds of tons of concrete, steel and glass were used to create "the bankers' dream" – a massive enterprise involving developers, politicians and multinational hotel chains who financed the construction of more than 27,000 hotel rooms and an urban centre with more than 700,000 inhabitants. The project has proved to be ecocidal, and left thousands without proper sanitation or adequate water or electricity.
Cancún draws in foreign currency and attracts almost half of Mexico's tourist trade; at the same time, it is a symbol of poverty. This expanding city in a nation without jobs draws in every kind of fortune seeker – money launderers, sex traders, drug traffickers.
In reality there are two cities, linked by a broad avenue, that share a name. One is the city of privilege and pleasure, the other a place of scarcity. There can be few places less appropriate for a world climate change conference.
Cancún is indeed a nest of serpents – sitting in a vast, toxic rubbish dumpLet's hope the UN climate change convention will expose the devastation wreaked on Mexico by its government's negligence
Share Comments (13)
Luis Hernandez Navarro guardian.co.uk, Thursday 25 November 2010 21.30 GMT Article historyNext week, Mexico hosts the UN convention on climate change in Cancún. It is ironic that such an important conference on the environment should take place in a country whose environment has been devastated, and in a city that exemplifies everything you should not do if you wish to protect the environment.
Cancún the city perfectly illustrates the light and shade of uncontrolled development; it is an emblem of both modernity and backwardness. Cancún – "nest of serpents" in the pre-Hispanic language – was born four decades ago from a government decision. A place of great natural beauty – a deserted island separated from the mainland by narrow channels, a series of lagoons, and a stretch of coast surrounded by virgin rainforest and pristine beaches – it was decided that it should be transformed into the country's most important tourist attraction.
Hundreds of tons of concrete, steel and glass were used to create "the bankers' dream" – a massive enterprise involving developers, politicians and multinational hotel chains who financed the construction of more than 27,000 hotel rooms and an urban centre with more than 700,000 inhabitants. The project has proved to be ecocidal, and left thousands without proper sanitation or adequate water or electricity.
Cancún draws in foreign currency and attracts almost half of Mexico's tourist trade; at the same time, it is a symbol of poverty. This expanding city in a nation without jobs draws in every kind of fortune seeker – money launderers, sex traders, drug traffickers.
In reality there are two cities, linked by a broad avenue, that share a name. One is the city of privilege and pleasure, the other a place of scarcity. There can be few places less appropriate for a world climate change conference.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Beaches, bargaining and building blocks at the Cancun climate talks | Pembina Institute
Beaches, bargaining and building blocks at the Cancun climate talks | Pembina Institute by Clare Demers
Like a lot of climate colleagues from around the world, I'll be packing my flip-flops later this week for the UN climate talks in Cancun, Mexico. Although I've never been much of a beach person, I'm hoping that the two-week conference can deliver some of the building blocks we need for a global effort to tackle climate change.
A year ago, we headed into a similar meeting in Copenhagen hoping to see countries agree to a binding deal. Those negotiations fell far short, and as a result, expectations are more modest this time: Cancun is widely understood as a potential stepping stone on the path to a full agreement a year from now, at the South Africa talks in 2011.....
Like a lot of climate colleagues from around the world, I'll be packing my flip-flops later this week for the UN climate talks in Cancun, Mexico. Although I've never been much of a beach person, I'm hoping that the two-week conference can deliver some of the building blocks we need for a global effort to tackle climate change.
A year ago, we headed into a similar meeting in Copenhagen hoping to see countries agree to a binding deal. Those negotiations fell far short, and as a result, expectations are more modest this time: Cancun is widely understood as a potential stepping stone on the path to a full agreement a year from now, at the South Africa talks in 2011.....
Q&A: Cancun climate change conference 2010 - Telegraph
Q&A: Cancun climate change conference 2010 - Telegraph
Q&A: Cancun climate change conference 2010
More than 190 nations are meeting in Cancun, Mexico for the latest round of United Nations talks towards a global deal on stopping catastrophic climate change.
By Louise Gray, Environment Correspondent 4:16PM GMT 23 Nov 2010
What is happening at the Cancun climate summit?
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was set up to stop global temperatures rising above dangerous levels as a result of man made emissions. Each year the Conference of the Parties (COP) meet to discuss progress. This is COP 16. The ultimate aim is a global deal that commits the world to cutting greenhouse gases by 50 per cent by 2050. Other ways to cut emissions include deals to stop deforestation and help poor countries develop in a green way.
Who will be there?
Related Articles
Q&A: the thinking person's guide 07 Dec 2009
Climate change: Key influencers in the debate 09 Apr 2010
Scarlett Johansson lends her voice to climate change campaign 24 Nov 2010
Scarlett Johansson heads celebrities open letter to negotiators at Cancun climate change summit 24 Nov 2010
Timeline: landmark climate change warnings, agreements and controversies 24 Nov 2010
Climate change: images of apocalypse 24 Nov 2010
Officials and environment ministers from 194 countries will meet at the Moon Palace Hotel and the Cancunmesse on the coastal resort of Cancun, Mexico. All together an estimated 15,000 people representing Governments, charities and media will travel to Cancun for the conference.
What does this have to do with Copenhagen?
The last meeting of the COP in Copenhagen ended in recrimination and failure. The meeting was billed as ‘the last chance to save the planet’ and world leaders including US President Barack Obama turned up. However rich and poor nations failed to agree on a legally binding target to cut emissions. Instead a weak ‘Copenhagen Accord’ was signed that allows countries to choose their own targets but has no power to force them to keep the promises.
Will this time be different?
In comparison to Copenhagen this meeting has been massively down played, largely because ministers from all countries do not want to look stupid again for promising a deal that is unlikely. World leaders are not even turning up this time, leaving it to their environment and foreign ministers.
So will anything be achieved?
It is generally agreed that a global deal to cut emissions is unlikely. Indeed Christiania Figueres, the head of the talks, believes a single, definitive and all-encompassing deal is unlikely to happen in her lifetime. However supporters of the process are hopeful that the talks could make progress towards a deal by putting in place the ‘functioning architecture’. For example it needs to be decided how emissions will be “monitored, reported and verified” before countries are happy to sign up to targets.
Who are the main players?
Christiania Figueres, the executive secretary of UNFCCC, a former negotiator from Costa Rica, is in charge of the talks. Fernando Tudela, Mexico’s main delegate, who is hoping for a breakthrough. Connie Hedegaard, EU climate action commissioner, is not too optimistic about negotiations. Xie Zhenhua, China's lead climate official, wants to see developed countries "do more and do better". Todd Stern, the US special envoy for climate change, believes each country should choose their own targets.
What are the main issues?
The ultimate aim of agreeing a global deal on cutting emissions is likely to be put to one side for now because it is so difficult for the world to agree. Instead there may be a series of ‘mini-deals’ on issues like deforestation, with rich nations agreeing to pay poor nations not to chop down trees. Countries could also decide how to share information on green technology so poor nations do not miss out on the opportunities to cut emissions through new inventions. A key issue is 'climate finance', which is the money paid out to poor countries to help them fight climate change.
Is there any money on the table?
Yes $100 (£60) billion by 2020 to help poor countries adapt to climate change and cut emissions. However there are further discussions on how this money will be raised. One of the most popular suggestion is through a tax on aviation and shipping. There is also a question over who will dole out funds. Will it be the World Bank or a whole new institution? This money will be used to help persuade developing nations to cut emissions. In the short term there is $10 (£6) billion per annum up to 2013 to help poor countries start adapting to climate change now. The UK has pledged £1.5 billion towards this ‘Fast Start Fund’.
Q&A: Cancun climate change conference 2010
More than 190 nations are meeting in Cancun, Mexico for the latest round of United Nations talks towards a global deal on stopping catastrophic climate change.
By Louise Gray, Environment Correspondent 4:16PM GMT 23 Nov 2010
What is happening at the Cancun climate summit?
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was set up to stop global temperatures rising above dangerous levels as a result of man made emissions. Each year the Conference of the Parties (COP) meet to discuss progress. This is COP 16. The ultimate aim is a global deal that commits the world to cutting greenhouse gases by 50 per cent by 2050. Other ways to cut emissions include deals to stop deforestation and help poor countries develop in a green way.
Who will be there?
Related Articles
Q&A: the thinking person's guide 07 Dec 2009
Climate change: Key influencers in the debate 09 Apr 2010
Scarlett Johansson lends her voice to climate change campaign 24 Nov 2010
Scarlett Johansson heads celebrities open letter to negotiators at Cancun climate change summit 24 Nov 2010
Timeline: landmark climate change warnings, agreements and controversies 24 Nov 2010
Climate change: images of apocalypse 24 Nov 2010
Officials and environment ministers from 194 countries will meet at the Moon Palace Hotel and the Cancunmesse on the coastal resort of Cancun, Mexico. All together an estimated 15,000 people representing Governments, charities and media will travel to Cancun for the conference.
What does this have to do with Copenhagen?
The last meeting of the COP in Copenhagen ended in recrimination and failure. The meeting was billed as ‘the last chance to save the planet’ and world leaders including US President Barack Obama turned up. However rich and poor nations failed to agree on a legally binding target to cut emissions. Instead a weak ‘Copenhagen Accord’ was signed that allows countries to choose their own targets but has no power to force them to keep the promises.
Will this time be different?
In comparison to Copenhagen this meeting has been massively down played, largely because ministers from all countries do not want to look stupid again for promising a deal that is unlikely. World leaders are not even turning up this time, leaving it to their environment and foreign ministers.
So will anything be achieved?
It is generally agreed that a global deal to cut emissions is unlikely. Indeed Christiania Figueres, the head of the talks, believes a single, definitive and all-encompassing deal is unlikely to happen in her lifetime. However supporters of the process are hopeful that the talks could make progress towards a deal by putting in place the ‘functioning architecture’. For example it needs to be decided how emissions will be “monitored, reported and verified” before countries are happy to sign up to targets.
Who are the main players?
Christiania Figueres, the executive secretary of UNFCCC, a former negotiator from Costa Rica, is in charge of the talks. Fernando Tudela, Mexico’s main delegate, who is hoping for a breakthrough. Connie Hedegaard, EU climate action commissioner, is not too optimistic about negotiations. Xie Zhenhua, China's lead climate official, wants to see developed countries "do more and do better". Todd Stern, the US special envoy for climate change, believes each country should choose their own targets.
What are the main issues?
The ultimate aim of agreeing a global deal on cutting emissions is likely to be put to one side for now because it is so difficult for the world to agree. Instead there may be a series of ‘mini-deals’ on issues like deforestation, with rich nations agreeing to pay poor nations not to chop down trees. Countries could also decide how to share information on green technology so poor nations do not miss out on the opportunities to cut emissions through new inventions. A key issue is 'climate finance', which is the money paid out to poor countries to help them fight climate change.
Is there any money on the table?
Yes $100 (£60) billion by 2020 to help poor countries adapt to climate change and cut emissions. However there are further discussions on how this money will be raised. One of the most popular suggestion is through a tax on aviation and shipping. There is also a question over who will dole out funds. Will it be the World Bank or a whole new institution? This money will be used to help persuade developing nations to cut emissions. In the short term there is $10 (£6) billion per annum up to 2013 to help poor countries start adapting to climate change now. The UK has pledged £1.5 billion towards this ‘Fast Start Fund’.
COP16 Hysteria UN “World Is On Track For Mutually Assured Destruction” « Tory Aardvark
COP16 Hysteria UN “World Is On Track For Mutually Assured Destruction” « Tory Aardvark
You can always tell when there is another Climate Change scam conference due, there is a definite change in the climate, or should that be weather?
It is all one and the same to the disciples of the Church of Climatology as the ill wind of warming alarmist fear radiates from the new scam central in Cancun.
Climategate was barely hatched and wobbly on it’s feet at Copenhagen, a year down the road and Climategate has hatched Glaciergate, IPCCgate in fact more gates than a gate shop has, the lasting damage done to the credibility of the IPCC and whole Climate Disruption scam is incalculable, Anthropogenic Global Warming is dead it just hasn’t hit the ground yet.
The Church of Climatology is in terminal decline but still the warming alarmists persist with their junk science and fear messages but then the Oracle at Delphi for the warming alarmists, the IPCC says there is no Climate Emergency, it’s all been a scam to redistribute wealth.
If you feel like a laugh you can read the script for the low budget horror movie here.
You can always tell when there is another Climate Change scam conference due, there is a definite change in the climate, or should that be weather?
It is all one and the same to the disciples of the Church of Climatology as the ill wind of warming alarmist fear radiates from the new scam central in Cancun.
Climategate was barely hatched and wobbly on it’s feet at Copenhagen, a year down the road and Climategate has hatched Glaciergate, IPCCgate in fact more gates than a gate shop has, the lasting damage done to the credibility of the IPCC and whole Climate Disruption scam is incalculable, Anthropogenic Global Warming is dead it just hasn’t hit the ground yet.
The Church of Climatology is in terminal decline but still the warming alarmists persist with their junk science and fear messages but then the Oracle at Delphi for the warming alarmists, the IPCC says there is no Climate Emergency, it’s all been a scam to redistribute wealth.
If you feel like a laugh you can read the script for the low budget horror movie here.
Climate Change - Andrew Steer "The Silent Revolution"
Developing countries urgently need a global deal on climate change but they’re not waiting for it says Andrew Steer, the World Bank’s Special Envoy for Climate Change.
Speaking to reporters in advance of the UN climate conference in Cancun next week, Steer outlined how developing countries are taking action on climate change and how the World Bank Group is helping.
The World Bank is supporting climate change activities in some 130 countries, Steer said, and a “silent revolution” is going on in terms of developing countries taking action.
"We are struck month by month by how much innovation is going on. Over the last two years, 80 percent of Bank client countries have asked that climate change be one of the pillars we work with them on,” he said. “This is up from about 10 percent ten years ago.”
This is money they could be using for other things but countries are choosing to use it for adaptation, to acquire clean technology, Steer continued.
Asked about what he thinks constitutes success in Cancun, he said progress can be made on two levels—a set of formal decisions on key topics like finance, forests, transfer of technology, mitigation and monitoring and a series of new initiatives on a range of issues that represent real progress.
Describing what he calls such “complementary” initiatives, Steer said there is enormous potential with agriculture.
Action on soil carbon is an opportunity to transform agriculture from climate change problem
Businesses Join Together to Drive Global Climate Protection at COP16 – Press Releases on CSRwire.com
Businesses Join Together to Drive Global Climate Protection at COP16 – Press Releases on CSRwire.com
The World Climate Summit is hosting a business and finance conference accelerating solutions to climate change on December 4-5, in Cancun, Mexico. This new, open and collaborative summit is the beginning of a 10-year framework that will support business, finance, and government leaders with designing and implementing solutions locally and globally, setting the world on a clean and prosperous path by 2020.
Media Contacts
Lisa Manley, The Coca-Cola Company, lmanley@na.ko.com +1 404 676-2683
Tom Williams, Duke Energy, Thomas.Williams2@duke-energy.com +1 980-373-4743
Eric Kosmider, The Dow Chemical Co., EPKosmider@dow.com +1 989-638-8745
The World Climate Summit is hosting a business and finance conference accelerating solutions to climate change on December 4-5, in Cancun, Mexico. This new, open and collaborative summit is the beginning of a 10-year framework that will support business, finance, and government leaders with designing and implementing solutions locally and globally, setting the world on a clean and prosperous path by 2020.
Media Contacts
Lisa Manley, The Coca-Cola Company, lmanley@na.ko.com +1 404 676-2683
Tom Williams, Duke Energy, Thomas.Williams2@duke-energy.com +1 980-373-4743
Eric Kosmider, The Dow Chemical Co., EPKosmider@dow.com +1 989-638-8745
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Monbiot.com » The Process Is Dead
Monbiot.com » The Process Is Dead That is good enough for me - I am too unable to walk to go...besides it is a lost cause.
Cancun Climate Conference News and Video
Cancun Climate Conference News and Video
Interactive live coverage Dec.1st-10th
Interactive live coverage Dec.1st-10th
A fair climate deal for the Pacific now
A fair climate deal for the Pacific now
Oxfam's Wave of Change united people from around New Zealand to tell decision makers to Protect our Pacific. Climate change costs lives. It's already having a devastating impact on poor communities in developing countries, particularly in the Pacific. Last year world leaders failed to agree to a fair and strong climate deal in Copenhagen. In November of this year they are gathering again, this time in Cancun. The problem has not gone away and neither has public concern that industrialised countries should be doing much more to help vulnerable communities on the front lines of climate change. For more information, visit: www.oxfam.org.nz/climatechange
Oxfam's Wave of Change united people from around New Zealand to tell decision makers to Protect our Pacific. Climate change costs lives. It's already having a devastating impact on poor communities in developing countries, particularly in the Pacific. Last year world leaders failed to agree to a fair and strong climate deal in Copenhagen. In November of this year they are gathering again, this time in Cancun. The problem has not gone away and neither has public concern that industrialised countries should be doing much more to help vulnerable communities on the front lines of climate change. For more information, visit: www.oxfam.org.nz/climatechange
Monday, November 22, 2010
Nagoya's hopes and dreams- The Protocol
For business, particularly companies using biodiversity as the source and
inspiration for innovative ingredients for food and personal care products,
the Nagoya Protocol will mean growing calls for measures to consider
and put in practice fair and equitable benefit sharing. The Nagoya Protocol
now clearly encompasses research and development to identify new
bioactive compounds and natural ingredients for food, supplement and
cosmetics products. The Nagoya Protocol also foresees mechanisms
that will facilitate and control the implementation of access and benefit
sharing principles along the supply chain. As a result, the Nagoya Protocol
reasserts the need for companies to monitor, understand and comply
with access and benefit sharing requirements. In addition, by providing
a clearer and more level playing field, it also opens up opportunities for
companies already working towards ethical practices in their sourcing of
biodiversity.
The objective of this note is to provide a brief overview of the Nagoya
Protocol. In particular, this note focuses on the provisions that may have
a bearing on companies working with biodiversity-based ingredients in
the food and personal care sectors, and explains their relevance and
rationale. It should be kept in mind, however, that the Nagoya Protocol
is only a starting point. A lot of the meaning and practical consequences
of its provisions will depend on its further development in the context of
the CBD, as well as its implementation at the national level.
inspiration for innovative ingredients for food and personal care products,
the Nagoya Protocol will mean growing calls for measures to consider
and put in practice fair and equitable benefit sharing. The Nagoya Protocol
now clearly encompasses research and development to identify new
bioactive compounds and natural ingredients for food, supplement and
cosmetics products. The Nagoya Protocol also foresees mechanisms
that will facilitate and control the implementation of access and benefit
sharing principles along the supply chain. As a result, the Nagoya Protocol
reasserts the need for companies to monitor, understand and comply
with access and benefit sharing requirements. In addition, by providing
a clearer and more level playing field, it also opens up opportunities for
companies already working towards ethical practices in their sourcing of
biodiversity.
The objective of this note is to provide a brief overview of the Nagoya
Protocol. In particular, this note focuses on the provisions that may have
a bearing on companies working with biodiversity-based ingredients in
the food and personal care sectors, and explains their relevance and
rationale. It should be kept in mind, however, that the Nagoya Protocol
is only a starting point. A lot of the meaning and practical consequences
of its provisions will depend on its further development in the context of
the CBD, as well as its implementation at the national level.
UEBT technical brief on the Nagoya Protocol
Dear colleagues,
The recently-adopted Nagoya Protocol on access and benefit sharing constitutes a landmark in the international governance of biodiversity, even if only with time will its exact meaning and possible implications be ascertained. As a reaffirmation of the importance of access and benefit sharing and a set of rules to facilitate, promote and ensure its effective implementation, it is already clear, however, that the Nagoya Protocol is relevant for a range of stakeholders - particularly companies using biodiversity in their research and development activities.
Please find enclosed a technical brief on the Nagoya Protocol, prepared by the Union for Ethical BioTrade (UEBT). Although not a comprehensive or in-depth analysis of the Nagoya Protocol, the technical brief does provide an overview of its main provisions, particularly as they may have a bearing on companies working with biodiversity-based ingredients in the food and personal care sectors. It may be more broadly useful, nevertheless, in all your work towards analyzing and putting in practice these provisions.
Any questions or comments are most welcome.
Many thanks,
Julia
The recently-adopted Nagoya Protocol on access and benefit sharing constitutes a landmark in the international governance of biodiversity, even if only with time will its exact meaning and possible implications be ascertained. As a reaffirmation of the importance of access and benefit sharing and a set of rules to facilitate, promote and ensure its effective implementation, it is already clear, however, that the Nagoya Protocol is relevant for a range of stakeholders - particularly companies using biodiversity in their research and development activities.
Please find enclosed a technical brief on the Nagoya Protocol, prepared by the Union for Ethical BioTrade (UEBT). Although not a comprehensive or in-depth analysis of the Nagoya Protocol, the technical brief does provide an overview of its main provisions, particularly as they may have a bearing on companies working with biodiversity-based ingredients in the food and personal care sectors. It may be more broadly useful, nevertheless, in all your work towards analyzing and putting in practice these provisions.
Any questions or comments are most welcome.
Many thanks,
Julia
Agriculture and Rural Development Day 2010: Dec.4th,Sat.
Agriculture and Rural Development Day 2010
Agriculture is where climate change, food security, and development intersect!
Agriculture and Rural Development Day 2010, held in parallel to COP16, will bring agriculture sector adaptation and mitigation strategies to the forefront of the global climate treaty negotiations. It will demonstrate clearly that agriculture is where climate change, food security, and development intersect. It informs the climate change negotiations and advocates for a COP decision on a “work program for agriculture” — and at the same time looking beyond the negotiations.
Agriculture and Rural Development Day 2010 will show how agricultural development can contribute to low emission futures, while adapting to climate change and enhancing supporting sustainable food security. The ensuing messages together with those of Forest Day 4 will be presented jointly at an official COP side event.
Last year’s Agriculture and Rural Development Day had increased the focus on the link between agriculture, food security and climate change, as well as forestry. This year we will build on that success by identifying policies and practical solutions to reduce agriculture-related greenhouse gas emissions and strengthen global food security and rural development.
Planned 2010 themes
•Agricultural intensification as an REDD strategy
•Agricultural mitigation and carbon sequestration
•Adaptation for food security and development outcomes
•Capturing carbon finance, including through forestry, for agricultural development
•What scientific, technological, and methodological aspects need to be considered to advance agriculture’s contribution to mitigation and adaptation?
Agriculture is where climate change, food security, and development intersect!
Agriculture and Rural Development Day 2010, held in parallel to COP16, will bring agriculture sector adaptation and mitigation strategies to the forefront of the global climate treaty negotiations. It will demonstrate clearly that agriculture is where climate change, food security, and development intersect. It informs the climate change negotiations and advocates for a COP decision on a “work program for agriculture” — and at the same time looking beyond the negotiations.
Agriculture and Rural Development Day 2010 will show how agricultural development can contribute to low emission futures, while adapting to climate change and enhancing supporting sustainable food security. The ensuing messages together with those of Forest Day 4 will be presented jointly at an official COP side event.
Last year’s Agriculture and Rural Development Day had increased the focus on the link between agriculture, food security and climate change, as well as forestry. This year we will build on that success by identifying policies and practical solutions to reduce agriculture-related greenhouse gas emissions and strengthen global food security and rural development.
Planned 2010 themes
•Agricultural intensification as an REDD strategy
•Agricultural mitigation and carbon sequestration
•Adaptation for food security and development outcomes
•Capturing carbon finance, including through forestry, for agricultural development
•What scientific, technological, and methodological aspects need to be considered to advance agriculture’s contribution to mitigation and adaptation?
Agriculture to Have Its Day Again « CGIAR in Action
Agriculture to Have Its Day Again « CGIAR in Action
Building on vigorous efforts made last year to incorporate agriculture into climate change negotiations, Agriculture and Rural Development Day 2010 will be held in parallel with the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) taking place at Cancún, Mexico, in early December.
A similar event held last year in conjunction with COP15 in Copenhagen – the first such meeting – brought together about 300 policy makers, scientists, farmers and others to discuss strategies and actions needed for climate change mitigation and adaptation in agriculture. This year, a larger group of experts will focus on global agriculture at the intersection of climate change, food security and rural development, with the aim of identifying policies and practical solutions to address these closely intertwined issues.
Hosted by a consortium of organizations, including the CGIAR, Agriculture and Rural Development Day 2010 will feature keynote speeches, round-table discussions and a marketplace of ideas. The outcomes will be presented, together with those of Forest Day 4, at an official COP16 side event to inform climate change negotiations.
.
Building on vigorous efforts made last year to incorporate agriculture into climate change negotiations, Agriculture and Rural Development Day 2010 will be held in parallel with the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) taking place at Cancún, Mexico, in early December.
A similar event held last year in conjunction with COP15 in Copenhagen – the first such meeting – brought together about 300 policy makers, scientists, farmers and others to discuss strategies and actions needed for climate change mitigation and adaptation in agriculture. This year, a larger group of experts will focus on global agriculture at the intersection of climate change, food security and rural development, with the aim of identifying policies and practical solutions to address these closely intertwined issues.
Hosted by a consortium of organizations, including the CGIAR, Agriculture and Rural Development Day 2010 will feature keynote speeches, round-table discussions and a marketplace of ideas. The outcomes will be presented, together with those of Forest Day 4, at an official COP16 side event to inform climate change negotiations.
.
London - Cancun, closer to COP16 - Blog Judith Macgregor
I guess some people have it all- chauffeur limousine to the airport; jet setting around the world as "WORK"; and dressed nice and clean - without the mishap of dirt;of cold; or rain.
I guess I am jealous- but I am grateful to have a warm shelter during this Canadian blizzard; and I thought the goal was for those that " have" to give to the "have not"- NOT a trade excursion for Britain.
And her taxi is paid for her- ...I can only dream on..those that have ,just get more...
Indígenas exigen un papel en la cumbre de cambio climático de Cancún - Planeta CNN - CNNMéxico.com
Indígenas exigen un papel en la cumbre de cambio climático de Cancún - Planeta CNN - CNNMéxico.com
MEXICO CITY (AP) - Representatives of several Indian groups on Wednesday demanded the right to participate in discussions to combat climate change, in the context of the summit to be held in Cancun from 29 November to 10 December next.
Meeting at the National Indigenous Council on Climate Change, developed this week, leaders of ethnic-like Purépecha, the Zapotec and Totonac- announced an action plan to be presented at the Sixteenth Conference of the Parties (COP 16) of the UN, to be attended as observers.
In a document entitled Declaration of Indigenous Peoples of Mexico on Climate Change, the groups are calling on all parties involved in this summit, especially the Mexican government to take them into account in making decisions.
The text in addition to demand- reduction of emissions of greenhouse gases and dependence on fossil fuels, greater respect for life forms and indigenous development models, as well as recognition of the rights they have on their territories.
The declaration calls for leaving "the false solutions to climate change linked to market mechanisms," citing as an example mega wind power and hydropower, as well as carbon credits, nuclear power, biofuels and GM crops to begin without prior consultation indigenous groups.
The partnerships seek to exploit the COP 16 to establish itself as collective subjects of rights, which can make proposals to combat climate change.
Of the 107 million Mexicans, at least 12 million are indigenous, divided into 64 ethnic groups and often affected by conditions of poverty and marginalization.
MEXICO CITY (AP) - Representatives of several Indian groups on Wednesday demanded the right to participate in discussions to combat climate change, in the context of the summit to be held in Cancun from 29 November to 10 December next.
Meeting at the National Indigenous Council on Climate Change, developed this week, leaders of ethnic-like Purépecha, the Zapotec and Totonac- announced an action plan to be presented at the Sixteenth Conference of the Parties (COP 16) of the UN, to be attended as observers.
In a document entitled Declaration of Indigenous Peoples of Mexico on Climate Change, the groups are calling on all parties involved in this summit, especially the Mexican government to take them into account in making decisions.
The text in addition to demand- reduction of emissions of greenhouse gases and dependence on fossil fuels, greater respect for life forms and indigenous development models, as well as recognition of the rights they have on their territories.
The declaration calls for leaving "the false solutions to climate change linked to market mechanisms," citing as an example mega wind power and hydropower, as well as carbon credits, nuclear power, biofuels and GM crops to begin without prior consultation indigenous groups.
The partnerships seek to exploit the COP 16 to establish itself as collective subjects of rights, which can make proposals to combat climate change.
Of the 107 million Mexicans, at least 12 million are indigenous, divided into 64 ethnic groups and often affected by conditions of poverty and marginalization.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
100 mayors have globally signed a Climate Pact
Alcaldes de más de 100 ciudades de todo el mundo firman un pacto climático - Planeta CNN - CNNMéxico.com
MEXICO CITY (CNNMéxico) - Leaders and rulers of cities around the world gathered on Sunday in Mexico City for the signing of the Pact of Cities, which has the purpose of committing actions to reduce emissions of urban agglomerations .
The agreement is part of the actions of the World Mayors Council on Climate Change. Marcelo Ebrard, head of the Government of Mexico City, said the importance of cities in fighting global warming is the power to act faster and extend the plan of federal government action.
He stressed that cities have set the example that it is possible to reach voluntary agreements to reduce emissions and verification, and show initiative to national governments.
Cities Pact was signed by mayors of more than 100 cities around the world to engage in reducing greenhouse gases, mitigation measures and develop plans for adaptation to climate change, and a system to measure, report and verify their progress.
Responsible for bringing this document to the next COP 16 in Cancun will be the same Ebrard, who also represents the world
MEXICO CITY (CNNMéxico) - Leaders and rulers of cities around the world gathered on Sunday in Mexico City for the signing of the Pact of Cities, which has the purpose of committing actions to reduce emissions of urban agglomerations .
The agreement is part of the actions of the World Mayors Council on Climate Change. Marcelo Ebrard, head of the Government of Mexico City, said the importance of cities in fighting global warming is the power to act faster and extend the plan of federal government action.
He stressed that cities have set the example that it is possible to reach voluntary agreements to reduce emissions and verification, and show initiative to national governments.
Cities Pact was signed by mayors of more than 100 cities around the world to engage in reducing greenhouse gases, mitigation measures and develop plans for adaptation to climate change, and a system to measure, report and verify their progress.
Responsible for bringing this document to the next COP 16 in Cancun will be the same Ebrard, who also represents the world
Saturday, November 20, 2010
THE OCEANS DAY AT CANCUN | Global Forum on Oceans, Coasts and Islands
THE OCEANS DAY AT CANCUN | Global Forum on Oceans, Coasts and Islands Saturday December 4th,2010
The Global Forum was first mobilized in 2001 to help the world’s governments place issues related to oceans, coasts, and SIDS on the agenda of the 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) in Johannesburg, South Africa (the ten-year review of progress achieved (or lack thereof) in the implementation of the outcomes of the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro),and was later formalized at the 2002 World Summit.
In the preparatory process for the WSSD, it became evident that ocean issues were not on the World Summit agenda. Hence, the Global Forum was mobilized to hold the first Global Conference on Oceans, Coasts, and Islands (in December 2001 at UNESCO, Paris) to lay the groundwork for the inclusion of an oceans perspective at theWSSD by calling atte ntion to the economic and social importance of oceans, coasts, and small island developing States and the serious problems besetting these areas. These efforts were successful in assisting governments in putting oceans on the WSSD agenda. At the World Summit on Sustainable Development in September 2002, Government delegates agreed on an action plan for oceans, coasts, and islands, with specific targets and timetables for action, to address the problems and threats, to sustainable development noted above. The ocean targets and timetables found in the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation represent an important advance because there is now a global consensus reached at the highest political levels that there is an urgent need to take specific actions to achieve the sustainable development of oceans, coasts, and of small island developing States.
But where is the venue??
The Global Forum was first mobilized in 2001 to help the world’s governments place issues related to oceans, coasts, and SIDS on the agenda of the 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) in Johannesburg, South Africa (the ten-year review of progress achieved (or lack thereof) in the implementation of the outcomes of the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro),and was later formalized at the 2002 World Summit.
In the preparatory process for the WSSD, it became evident that ocean issues were not on the World Summit agenda. Hence, the Global Forum was mobilized to hold the first Global Conference on Oceans, Coasts, and Islands (in December 2001 at UNESCO, Paris) to lay the groundwork for the inclusion of an oceans perspective at theWSSD by calling atte ntion to the economic and social importance of oceans, coasts, and small island developing States and the serious problems besetting these areas. These efforts were successful in assisting governments in putting oceans on the WSSD agenda. At the World Summit on Sustainable Development in September 2002, Government delegates agreed on an action plan for oceans, coasts, and islands, with specific targets and timetables for action, to address the problems and threats, to sustainable development noted above. The ocean targets and timetables found in the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation represent an important advance because there is now a global consensus reached at the highest political levels that there is an urgent need to take specific actions to achieve the sustainable development of oceans, coasts, and of small island developing States.
But where is the venue??
Clark Labs Unveiling New Tools for REDD+ at Forest Day During COP16
Clark Labs Unveiling New Tools for REDD+ at Forest Day During COP16
Forest Day 4 will take place on December 5th alongside COP16, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change 16th Conference of the Parties, in Cancún, Mexico. Forest Day is one of the world's leading global platforms for those interested in forests and climate change. The theme for Forest Day 4 is "Time to Act," highlighting the urgent need to protect the world's forests, conserve habitats and prevent biodiversity loss. Forest Day includes plenary sessions, learning events, posters and an exhibition. It is hosted by the Government of Mexico, through the National Forestry Commission, the Collaborative Partnership on Forests and CIFOR. Clark Labs will be exhibiting at booth #22.
Last year, nearly 1,500 people attended Forest Day 3 in Copenhagen, including world leaders, three Nobel Prize winners, top scientists, donors, global and regional media, policymakers, leaders of indigenous communities, and notably, 250 climate negotiators.
Forest Day 4 will take place on December 5th alongside COP16, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change 16th Conference of the Parties, in Cancún, Mexico. Forest Day is one of the world's leading global platforms for those interested in forests and climate change. The theme for Forest Day 4 is "Time to Act," highlighting the urgent need to protect the world's forests, conserve habitats and prevent biodiversity loss. Forest Day includes plenary sessions, learning events, posters and an exhibition. It is hosted by the Government of Mexico, through the National Forestry Commission, the Collaborative Partnership on Forests and CIFOR. Clark Labs will be exhibiting at booth #22.
Last year, nearly 1,500 people attended Forest Day 3 in Copenhagen, including world leaders, three Nobel Prize winners, top scientists, donors, global and regional media, policymakers, leaders of indigenous communities, and notably, 250 climate negotiators.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Luncheon TO: Mar.9th,12 noon 718 South
Wednesday, March 9
PDAC-CIM Luncheon
12 noon – 2:00 pm
MTCC, South Building, Room 718
Climate Science? The Real Social, Environmental and Economic Costs.
In a desire to stop global warming, governments are adopting policies that promise to regulate much of our personal and professional lives. Lawrence Solomon, columnist, National Post and founder and managing director of Energy Probe Research Foundation, discusses that in the absence of sound science, it is reckless to pursue policies that will transform the planet for the worse. The good news: Thanks to a global backlash, governments everywhere are failing in their attempts to impose their vision on their citizens.
Wine sponsor:
The City of Timmins 100th Anniversary Committee and The Porcupine Prospectors and Developers Association
Tickets: $65 each
PDAC-CIM Luncheon
12 noon – 2:00 pm
MTCC, South Building, Room 718
Climate Science? The Real Social, Environmental and Economic Costs.
In a desire to stop global warming, governments are adopting policies that promise to regulate much of our personal and professional lives. Lawrence Solomon, columnist, National Post and founder and managing director of Energy Probe Research Foundation, discusses that in the absence of sound science, it is reckless to pursue policies that will transform the planet for the worse. The good news: Thanks to a global backlash, governments everywhere are failing in their attempts to impose their vision on their citizens.
Wine sponsor:
The City of Timmins 100th Anniversary Committee and The Porcupine Prospectors and Developers Association
Tickets: $65 each
El cambio climático afectará a la disponibilidad de agua dulce - Planeta CNN - CNNMéxico.com
El cambio climático afectará a la disponibilidad de agua dulce - Planeta CNN - CNNMéxico.com
Maybe the Harper Government is right?? Maybe they feel our Canadian water is theirs to take??
Wish I had somebody intelligent to talk with.- My finances have reached a threshold where I can no longer be a jet setter.
MEXICO CITY (CNNMéxico) - The possible rising temperatures and changing precipitation levels caused by climate change not only affect the intensity and frequency with which they are floods or droughts. They could also decrease the availability of freshwater for human consumption.
Carlos Patiño Gómez, assistant coordinator of Integrated Water Management, the Mexican Institute of Water Technology (IMTA), said that according to scientific estimates, climate change could affect the quantity and quality of available fresh water, and therefore, sectors such as agriculture.
Patino explained that the IMTA performs calculations to estimate how much water could be lost because of global warming, because such information is currently unknown.
According to mathematical models developed by IMTA, which calculate the impacts of climate change in specific
Maybe the Harper Government is right?? Maybe they feel our Canadian water is theirs to take??
Wish I had somebody intelligent to talk with.- My finances have reached a threshold where I can no longer be a jet setter.
MEXICO CITY (CNNMéxico) - The possible rising temperatures and changing precipitation levels caused by climate change not only affect the intensity and frequency with which they are floods or droughts. They could also decrease the availability of freshwater for human consumption.
Carlos Patiño Gómez, assistant coordinator of Integrated Water Management, the Mexican Institute of Water Technology (IMTA), said that according to scientific estimates, climate change could affect the quantity and quality of available fresh water, and therefore, sectors such as agriculture.
Patino explained that the IMTA performs calculations to estimate how much water could be lost because of global warming, because such information is currently unknown.
According to mathematical models developed by IMTA, which calculate the impacts of climate change in specific
International Climate Policy -U.S./Papers& Docs
International Climate Policy | World Resources Institute
has many experts and staff who work on international climate negotiations, including those under the United Nations Framework on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and related climate agreements. Our experts have been closely involved in negotiations, developing solutions, and forging new agreements.
Check out our latest research and findings on adaptation, climate finance, deforestation (REDD), the latest country positions, measurement, reporting & verification (MRV), technology, and other issues relevant to international climate policy.
has many experts and staff who work on international climate negotiations, including those under the United Nations Framework on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and related climate agreements. Our experts have been closely involved in negotiations, developing solutions, and forging new agreements.
Check out our latest research and findings on adaptation, climate finance, deforestation (REDD), the latest country positions, measurement, reporting & verification (MRV), technology, and other issues relevant to international climate policy.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
UN: Caution, not climate tinkering
UN: Caution, not climate tinkering | rabble.ca
How will we address the multiple crises of climate, biodiversity, food, and water?
There are two profoundly different schools of thought. One is based on the belief that we should reduce resource exploitation and more fairly distribute resources. The other favors market-based approaches in conjunction with high-dollar technological fixes -- such as the deliberate manipulation of the Earth's climate through geoengineering (proposed examples include seeding clouds with chemicals, obstructing solar rays with space-based mirrors, or using vertical ocean pipes to bring cooler deep-ocean water to the surface).
At the meeting of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in Nagoya, Japan, on Oct. 30, those who favor the first approach scored a major victory. In a landmark consensus decision, the 193-member CBD closed its 10th biennial meeting in with a de facto moratorium on geoengineering projects and experiments.
"Any private or public experimentation or adventurism intended to manipulate the planetary thermostat will be in violation of this carefully crafted UN consensus," said Silvia Ribeiro, Latin American Director of ETC Group, who was in Nagoya lobbying for the moratorium.
"This is a victory for common sense, and for precaution. It will not inhibit legitimate scientific research."
The ETC Group -- the same civil society organization that successfully pushed for an international ban on Monsanto's infamous "terminator seed" a decade ago -- led the charge for the moratorium. The group's new report, Geopiracy: The Case Against Geoengineering, offers a critique of this emerging set of planetary-scale technologies, which the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change defines as "the deliberate large-scale manipulation of the planetary environment." David Keith, a leading proponent
How will we address the multiple crises of climate, biodiversity, food, and water?
There are two profoundly different schools of thought. One is based on the belief that we should reduce resource exploitation and more fairly distribute resources. The other favors market-based approaches in conjunction with high-dollar technological fixes -- such as the deliberate manipulation of the Earth's climate through geoengineering (proposed examples include seeding clouds with chemicals, obstructing solar rays with space-based mirrors, or using vertical ocean pipes to bring cooler deep-ocean water to the surface).
At the meeting of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in Nagoya, Japan, on Oct. 30, those who favor the first approach scored a major victory. In a landmark consensus decision, the 193-member CBD closed its 10th biennial meeting in with a de facto moratorium on geoengineering projects and experiments.
"Any private or public experimentation or adventurism intended to manipulate the planetary thermostat will be in violation of this carefully crafted UN consensus," said Silvia Ribeiro, Latin American Director of ETC Group, who was in Nagoya lobbying for the moratorium.
"This is a victory for common sense, and for precaution. It will not inhibit legitimate scientific research."
The ETC Group -- the same civil society organization that successfully pushed for an international ban on Monsanto's infamous "terminator seed" a decade ago -- led the charge for the moratorium. The group's new report, Geopiracy: The Case Against Geoengineering, offers a critique of this emerging set of planetary-scale technologies, which the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change defines as "the deliberate large-scale manipulation of the planetary environment." David Keith, a leading proponent
Norton Rose Group - Webinar - Climate change negotiations 2010, Cancun
Norton Rose Group - Webinar - Climate change negotiations 2010, Cancun
Norton Rose Group will be attending this year's Climate Conference in Cancun, Mexico (COP16). We will be hosting a webinar on Thursday 25 November which will remind participants of the negotiating process and outline some of the key issues for consideration at this year's negotiations.
Issues to be considered include:
Mitigation targets and actions
Finance
REDD/forestry
Technology Transfer
Market Mechanisms
Date
Thursday 25 November 2010
Time
09:30 GMT
RSVP
To register a place at this webinar and to receive dial in details please email greeneconomy@nortonrose.com by close of business on Wednesday 24 November 2010.
.
Norton Rose Group will be attending this year's Climate Conference in Cancun, Mexico (COP16). We will be hosting a webinar on Thursday 25 November which will remind participants of the negotiating process and outline some of the key issues for consideration at this year's negotiations.
Issues to be considered include:
Mitigation targets and actions
Finance
REDD/forestry
Technology Transfer
Market Mechanisms
Date
Thursday 25 November 2010
Time
09:30 GMT
RSVP
To register a place at this webinar and to receive dial in details please email greeneconomy@nortonrose.com by close of business on Wednesday 24 November 2010.
.
Fighting Climate Change in Mexico | Pembina Institute
Fighting Climate Change in Mexico | Pembina Institute
Under the UN's climate agreements, developed countries like Canada have to do more than just cutting their own greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. We also have a responsibility to help poorer countries reduce theirs.
In advance of the UN climate talks in Cancun in December 2010, this fact sheet looks at opportunities to cut greenhouse gas pollution in Mexico — and at the role that countries like Canada can play in realizing those opportunities.
Under the UN's climate agreements, developed countries like Canada have to do more than just cutting their own greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. We also have a responsibility to help poorer countries reduce theirs.
In advance of the UN climate talks in Cancun in December 2010, this fact sheet looks at opportunities to cut greenhouse gas pollution in Mexico — and at the role that countries like Canada can play in realizing those opportunities.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Large investors at climate talks .
Large investors urge progress at climate talks | Reuters
(Reuters) - Stronger domestic and international policy is needed to help unlock investment in low-carbon technology in the absence of a global climate deal, investors with over $15 trillion of assets said on Tuesday.
A United Nations summit in Cancun, Mexico, starts in just two weeks' time to negotiate a new global climate deal but expectations have sunk to a modest package that includes a fund to manage aid to poor nations, new ways to share clean technology and to protect tropical forests.
Around 260 investors, including Dutch pension fund ATP, HSBC and Deutsche Bank Asset Management, called for Cancun to deliver $30 billion of climate aid promised last year, in a statement released by the U.N. Environment Programme Finance Initiative.
"Among the investors' key priorities is delivery of promised fast-start climate financing, consistent with pledges at last year's U.N. climate negotiations in Copenhagen," a UNEP Finance Initiative statement said
(Reuters) - Stronger domestic and international policy is needed to help unlock investment in low-carbon technology in the absence of a global climate deal, investors with over $15 trillion of assets said on Tuesday.
A United Nations summit in Cancun, Mexico, starts in just two weeks' time to negotiate a new global climate deal but expectations have sunk to a modest package that includes a fund to manage aid to poor nations, new ways to share clean technology and to protect tropical forests.
Around 260 investors, including Dutch pension fund ATP, HSBC and Deutsche Bank Asset Management, called for Cancun to deliver $30 billion of climate aid promised last year, in a statement released by the U.N. Environment Programme Finance Initiative.
"Among the investors' key priorities is delivery of promised fast-start climate financing, consistent with pledges at last year's U.N. climate negotiations in Copenhagen," a UNEP Finance Initiative statement said
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Amazon Watch
Amazon Watch ok- I take it back Meloche is to save the Ecuador Rain forest..Videoclip by James Cameron produced'Belo Monte Dam' and defend the Amazon.
Bâtirente - Our Team
Bâtirente - Our Team
Quebec's solution to climate change......Financial Planners-True to its operational model based on the significant delegation of powers to third parties, the Bâtirente team is small. It comprises a General Co-ordinator, an Assistant Co-ordinator – Institutional Markets, two Group-Annuity Advisors, an Extrafinancial Risks Manager, a Communications Manager, an Office Agent and, occasionally, a number of subcontractors or students in training.
Quebec's solution to climate change......Financial Planners-True to its operational model based on the significant delegation of powers to third parties, the Bâtirente team is small. It comprises a General Co-ordinator, an Assistant Co-ordinator – Institutional Markets, two Group-Annuity Advisors, an Extrafinancial Risks Manager, a Communications Manager, an Office Agent and, occasionally, a number of subcontractors or students in training.
Organizaciones civiles de México y redes sociales de todo el mundo inician las Jornadas Civiles en torno a la Cumbre Climática en Cancún | Centro Nacional de Comunicación Social AC
Organizaciones civiles de México y redes sociales de todo el mundo inician las Jornadas Civiles en torno a la Cumbre Climática en Cancún | Centro Nacional de Comunicación Social AC
Hundreds of civil society organizations and representatives of social movements in Mexico and worldwide coordination created a platform called Bombay Area Climate Dialogue (Dialogue is-Mex), in order to articulate and promote the voices of society in its search for climate justice. To the Summit of the UNFCCC United Nations Climate Change (COP 16), to be held soon in Cancun, Mexico, has developed a broad convergence of indigenous networks, unions, women, environmentalists, farmers and citizens of all possible activities that demand real solutions to stop climate change, address its impacts, compensate communities which have been strongly affected and questioning the model of development that leads to the devastation of the earth and life.
Dialogue is-Mex will present "a peaceful and purposeful 'in the heart of Cancun, on the super block 21, which has renamed the MUP BLADES (referring to the Popular Urban Movement of Cancun), together with all civil society networks world by an international forum of Climate Justice, as well as cultural and artistic activities, walks in the climate, peaceful demonstrations, and willing to discuss and influence the decisions made in official negotiations at COP 16.
They will also be suing the Mexican government to "stop playing the double game of having a strong international discourse for climate, while in severe driving national policies and substantial budgets is very far from being aimed at tackling climate change and reduce carbon footprint, the contrary. And as for Mexico's role in the climate summit, demanding that we leave the defeatist position that nothing can be won in Cancun, and put to work to make progress on substantive issues, such as a second commitment period Kyoto protocol, the need to assume primary responsibility for binding commitments to reduce emissions and ultimately, stop global warming, and to establish mechanisms and public funding is allocated to meet the immediate to the impacts of climate change without compromising natural resources and without compromising the sovereignty and territory of communities and nations, "said Raul Benet, Dialogue is-Mex.
Hundreds of civil society organizations and representatives of social movements in Mexico and worldwide coordination created a platform called Bombay Area Climate Dialogue (Dialogue is-Mex), in order to articulate and promote the voices of society in its search for climate justice. To the Summit of the UNFCCC United Nations Climate Change (COP 16), to be held soon in Cancun, Mexico, has developed a broad convergence of indigenous networks, unions, women, environmentalists, farmers and citizens of all possible activities that demand real solutions to stop climate change, address its impacts, compensate communities which have been strongly affected and questioning the model of development that leads to the devastation of the earth and life.
Dialogue is-Mex will present "a peaceful and purposeful 'in the heart of Cancun, on the super block 21, which has renamed the MUP BLADES (referring to the Popular Urban Movement of Cancun), together with all civil society networks world by an international forum of Climate Justice, as well as cultural and artistic activities, walks in the climate, peaceful demonstrations, and willing to discuss and influence the decisions made in official negotiations at COP 16.
They will also be suing the Mexican government to "stop playing the double game of having a strong international discourse for climate, while in severe driving national policies and substantial budgets is very far from being aimed at tackling climate change and reduce carbon footprint, the contrary. And as for Mexico's role in the climate summit, demanding that we leave the defeatist position that nothing can be won in Cancun, and put to work to make progress on substantive issues, such as a second commitment period Kyoto protocol, the need to assume primary responsibility for binding commitments to reduce emissions and ultimately, stop global warming, and to establish mechanisms and public funding is allocated to meet the immediate to the impacts of climate change without compromising natural resources and without compromising the sovereignty and territory of communities and nations, "said Raul Benet, Dialogue is-Mex.
Rio Convention- a 'virtual' Pavilion
Overview and Programme - a 'virtual' Pavilion
Overview and Programme - a 'virtual' Pavilion
Owing to limited space and resources available within the conference venue, as well as the large demand to accommodate UNFCCC Parties and over 1300 admitted observer organisations, the Rio Conventions’ Ecosystems and Climate Change Pavilion will be a virtual Pavilion, bringing together a series of activities that make maximum use of the exhibition and side event facilities kindly put in place by the Government of Mexico.
Relevant activities of a number of Pavilion partners and other organisations will be promoted daily through a special section of the COP16/CMP 6 Daily Programme as well as on the Ecosystems Pavilion website.
Key elements of the Ecosystems Pavilion at Cancun include:
•The Pavilion website updated regularly, with links to the key messages from the Ecosystems Pavilion held at the CBD COP10 (18-28 October, 2010) in Japan.
•A Pavilion exhibit
•A number of side events on topics highlighting the linkages between biodiversity, climate change and sustainable land management. These side events would also be included in the COP16/CMP 6 Daily Programme.
Preliminary Programme of the virtual Ecosystems Pavilion side events within the UNFCCC side event programme at Cancun Messe
For further information, please visit the UNFCCC COP16/CMP 6 Side event schedule
Monday 29th Nov 13:20 – 14:40
Enhancing synergies: Launch of the Rio Conventions’ Ecosystems and Climate Change Pavilion Organizer: SCBD
Tuesday 30 Nov, 15:30-17:30, EU Pavilion
Overview and Programme - a 'virtual' Pavilion
Owing to limited space and resources available within the conference venue, as well as the large demand to accommodate UNFCCC Parties and over 1300 admitted observer organisations, the Rio Conventions’ Ecosystems and Climate Change Pavilion will be a virtual Pavilion, bringing together a series of activities that make maximum use of the exhibition and side event facilities kindly put in place by the Government of Mexico.
Relevant activities of a number of Pavilion partners and other organisations will be promoted daily through a special section of the COP16/CMP 6 Daily Programme as well as on the Ecosystems Pavilion website.
Key elements of the Ecosystems Pavilion at Cancun include:
•The Pavilion website updated regularly, with links to the key messages from the Ecosystems Pavilion held at the CBD COP10 (18-28 October, 2010) in Japan.
•A Pavilion exhibit
•A number of side events on topics highlighting the linkages between biodiversity, climate change and sustainable land management. These side events would also be included in the COP16/CMP 6 Daily Programme.
Preliminary Programme of the virtual Ecosystems Pavilion side events within the UNFCCC side event programme at Cancun Messe
For further information, please visit the UNFCCC COP16/CMP 6 Side event schedule
Monday 29th Nov 13:20 – 14:40
Enhancing synergies: Launch of the Rio Conventions’ Ecosystems and Climate Change Pavilion Organizer: SCBD
Tuesday 30 Nov, 15:30-17:30, EU Pavilion
Monday, November 15, 2010
ICO2N
ICO2N
Who is ICO2N?ICO2N is the Integrated CO2 Network, an organization of Canadian companies committed to helping Canada meet its climate change objectives while supporting economic growth.
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) — is the process of capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) from large industrial sources before it is released to the atmosphere, and then safely transporting the CO2 and storing it in mature oil and gas reservoirs or in other deep geological formations.
CCS is a proven, technically viable and environmentally safe means of reducing greenhouse gases (GHG). It is the country’s largest potential CO2 mitigation option and is a critical part of Canada’s GHG reduction and energy strategies.
Who is ICO2N?ICO2N is the Integrated CO2 Network, an organization of Canadian companies committed to helping Canada meet its climate change objectives while supporting economic growth.
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) — is the process of capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) from large industrial sources before it is released to the atmosphere, and then safely transporting the CO2 and storing it in mature oil and gas reservoirs or in other deep geological formations.
CCS is a proven, technically viable and environmentally safe means of reducing greenhouse gases (GHG). It is the country’s largest potential CO2 mitigation option and is a critical part of Canada’s GHG reduction and energy strategies.
media21geneva.org - Introduction
media21geneva.org - Introduction
CONCEPT: Media21 will organize its 27th journalist workshop on global issues as a side-event of the International Workshop on Addressing the Livelihood Crisis of Farmers - Weather and Climate Services, Belo Horizonte, Brazil - 12-14 July 2010, organized by the World Meteorological Organization together with several co-sponsors.
A similar workshop has been successfully achieved in Nairobi (6-16 April) with the participation of 40 mostly African journalists. They visited various project of sustainable agriculture and forestry in Kenya, and met 35 experts, diplomats and policy makers during the 1st Conference of ministers responsible for meteorology in Africa. The Belo Horizonte meeting will be a framework to report on the impact of climate change, particularly in Latin America, and the solutions towards a sustainable agriculture in order to meet the challenge. Journalists will interact with actors of different sectors (governments, NGOs, business, farmers, universities).
Some panels will also feature the sharp conclusions of IAASTD (International Assessment of Agricultural Knowledge, Science and Technology for Development: www.agassessment.org), a global 2000 pages report prepared by 400 experts. It appears as a road map towards sustainable food production in order to cope with population growth and climate change, with new knowledge to fight poverty, hunger, diseases, etc.
The focal point of the workshop will be the role of media in passing down scientific assessments and meteorological information to small farmers, rural population and decision makers. This will require a discussion on the necessary language and story-mapping in order to reach out to the population. Local and regional journalist organizations will collaborate with Media21 on this.
CONCEPT: Media21 will organize its 27th journalist workshop on global issues as a side-event of the International Workshop on Addressing the Livelihood Crisis of Farmers - Weather and Climate Services, Belo Horizonte, Brazil - 12-14 July 2010, organized by the World Meteorological Organization together with several co-sponsors.
A similar workshop has been successfully achieved in Nairobi (6-16 April) with the participation of 40 mostly African journalists. They visited various project of sustainable agriculture and forestry in Kenya, and met 35 experts, diplomats and policy makers during the 1st Conference of ministers responsible for meteorology in Africa. The Belo Horizonte meeting will be a framework to report on the impact of climate change, particularly in Latin America, and the solutions towards a sustainable agriculture in order to meet the challenge. Journalists will interact with actors of different sectors (governments, NGOs, business, farmers, universities).
Some panels will also feature the sharp conclusions of IAASTD (International Assessment of Agricultural Knowledge, Science and Technology for Development: www.agassessment.org), a global 2000 pages report prepared by 400 experts. It appears as a road map towards sustainable food production in order to cope with population growth and climate change, with new knowledge to fight poverty, hunger, diseases, etc.
The focal point of the workshop will be the role of media in passing down scientific assessments and meteorological information to small farmers, rural population and decision makers. This will require a discussion on the necessary language and story-mapping in order to reach out to the population. Local and regional journalist organizations will collaborate with Media21 on this.
COP16 | CMP6 - ¿Cómo opera la Villa de Cambio Climático? - Villa de Cambio Climático
COP16 | CMP6 - ¿Cómo opera la Villa de Cambio Climático? - Villa de Cambio Climático
I guess this is where the 'Opening Ceremonies' will be held.
so...:
- do not drink the tapp water
-only drink bottled water
- do NOT eat street food
- only eat food in fancy hotels. Buy alot of nutrigrain,granola bars...5 boxes $50,00 of Mexican Pesos.
I guess this is where the 'Opening Ceremonies' will be held.
so...:
- do not drink the tapp water
-only drink bottled water
- do NOT eat street food
- only eat food in fancy hotels. Buy alot of nutrigrain,granola bars...5 boxes $50,00 of Mexican Pesos.
Ecopolity » Will the G20 help Cancun to succeed?
Ecopolity » Will the G20 help Cancun to succeed?
“Fossil Fuel Subsidies: We reaffirm our commitment to rationalize and phase-out over the medium term inefficient fossil fuel subsidies that encourage wasteful consumption, with timing based on national circumstances, while providing targeted support for the poorest. We direct our Finance and Energy Ministers to report back on the progress made in implementing country-specific strategies and in achieving the goals to which we agreed in Pittsburgh and Toronto at the 2011 Summit in France.” From The Seoul Summit Document: Framework for Strong, Sustainable and Balanced Growth
“Medium term” and “timing based on national circumstances” give any country a legitimate exit option based on the subjective interpretation of “medium” and “circumstances”. Chance of achievement near zero.
Here’s what they said about climate change and the low carbon economy:
“Climate Change and Green Growth: Addressing the threat of global
“Fossil Fuel Subsidies: We reaffirm our commitment to rationalize and phase-out over the medium term inefficient fossil fuel subsidies that encourage wasteful consumption, with timing based on national circumstances, while providing targeted support for the poorest. We direct our Finance and Energy Ministers to report back on the progress made in implementing country-specific strategies and in achieving the goals to which we agreed in Pittsburgh and Toronto at the 2011 Summit in France.” From The Seoul Summit Document: Framework for Strong, Sustainable and Balanced Growth
“Medium term” and “timing based on national circumstances” give any country a legitimate exit option based on the subjective interpretation of “medium” and “circumstances”. Chance of achievement near zero.
Here’s what they said about climate change and the low carbon economy:
“Climate Change and Green Growth: Addressing the threat of global
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Green Party of Canada urges public mobilization for Cancun : Climate and Capitalism
Green Party of Canada urges public mobilization for Cancun : Climate and Capitalism
[As ecosocialists, we at C&C feel that the demands outlined in this statement are inadequate. But such disagreements take second place to our pleasure at seeing the Green Party issue an important call for action against climate change and against Canada's anti-environmental policies. We look forward to working with Green Party activists in building mass public actions.]
News release issued by the Green Party of Canada, October 29, 2010
Green Party of Canada leader Elizabeth May called today for a re-politicization of the climate movement and for a major public mobilization during the one month lead-up to the UN’s Framework Convention on Climate Change 16th Conference of the Parties. The meeting will be held in Cancun, Mexico, on November 29, 2010.
“In the wake of the Copenhagen Summit disaster a year ago, much of the climate change movement has become either demoralized or depoliticized and instead focused on voluntary, personal initiatives like planting trees or growing local food. However positive, voluntary individual measures are highly inadequate when considering the breadth and scale of the
[As ecosocialists, we at C&C feel that the demands outlined in this statement are inadequate. But such disagreements take second place to our pleasure at seeing the Green Party issue an important call for action against climate change and against Canada's anti-environmental policies. We look forward to working with Green Party activists in building mass public actions.]
News release issued by the Green Party of Canada, October 29, 2010
Green Party of Canada leader Elizabeth May called today for a re-politicization of the climate movement and for a major public mobilization during the one month lead-up to the UN’s Framework Convention on Climate Change 16th Conference of the Parties. The meeting will be held in Cancun, Mexico, on November 29, 2010.
“In the wake of the Copenhagen Summit disaster a year ago, much of the climate change movement has become either demoralized or depoliticized and instead focused on voluntary, personal initiatives like planting trees or growing local food. However positive, voluntary individual measures are highly inadequate when considering the breadth and scale of the
Take a look at this
Hi,
I thought you'd like this:
Click here
G
This email is a direct message from a friend who wants to share an item of interest with you.
This email message is powered by Gigya's Wildfire technology. If you no longer wish to receive messages that are sent via Gigya's service, please click here to remove your email address.
Gigya Inc., 855 El Camino Real Building 4, Suite 290 Palo Alto, CA 94301.
I thought you'd like this:
Click here
G
This email is a direct message from a friend who wants to share an item of interest with you.
This email message is powered by Gigya's Wildfire technology. If you no longer wish to receive messages that are sent via Gigya's service, please click here to remove your email address.
Gigya Inc., 855 El Camino Real Building 4, Suite 290 Palo Alto, CA 94301.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Reuters AlertNet - India: Cancun will test climate talks' credibility
Reuters AlertNet - India: Cancun will test climate talks' credibility
By Matthias Williams
NEW DELHI, Nov 10 (Reuters) - U.N. climate talks in Cancun will be the last chance for nations to agree on thorny issues such as technology transfers and will test the dialogue's credibility, India's environment minister said on Wednesday.
Nations must reach a consensus on sharing green technology between rich and developing countries and resist the temptation to cling to old positions "like a mantra", Jairam Ramesh told a news conference after a two-day climate meeting in New Delhi.
Nations were so divided on intellectual property rights (IPR) for costly technology that some saw it as an essential ingredient of a deal, while others refused to talk about it, he said.
"We have to find a middle path because these two extreme positions have held back an agreement for too long, and frankly we are running out of time," Ramesh said.
"Cancun is the last chance. The credibility of the entire climate change negotiating system is at stake. If you do not get a set of operational and meaningful decisions at Cancun, everybody is going to get sick and tired of us."
Prospects for the Nov. 29-Dec. 10 climate change talks in the Mexican resort of Cancun have dimmed in recent months because of near-deadlock in the 194-nation negotiations over how to share the burden in cutting greenhouse gas emissions
By Matthias Williams
NEW DELHI, Nov 10 (Reuters) - U.N. climate talks in Cancun will be the last chance for nations to agree on thorny issues such as technology transfers and will test the dialogue's credibility, India's environment minister said on Wednesday.
Nations must reach a consensus on sharing green technology between rich and developing countries and resist the temptation to cling to old positions "like a mantra", Jairam Ramesh told a news conference after a two-day climate meeting in New Delhi.
Nations were so divided on intellectual property rights (IPR) for costly technology that some saw it as an essential ingredient of a deal, while others refused to talk about it, he said.
"We have to find a middle path because these two extreme positions have held back an agreement for too long, and frankly we are running out of time," Ramesh said.
"Cancun is the last chance. The credibility of the entire climate change negotiating system is at stake. If you do not get a set of operational and meaningful decisions at Cancun, everybody is going to get sick and tired of us."
Prospects for the Nov. 29-Dec. 10 climate change talks in the Mexican resort of Cancun have dimmed in recent months because of near-deadlock in the 194-nation negotiations over how to share the burden in cutting greenhouse gas emissions
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Monbiot.com » A Ghost Agreement-Biodiversity in Japan
Monbiot.com » A Ghost Agreement
A Ghost Agreement
Posted November 1, 2010 Everyone agrees that the new declaration on biodiversity is a triumph. Just one snag: it doesn’t appear to exist.
By George Monbiot, published in the Guardian 2nd November 2010
“Countries join forces to save life on Earth”, the front page of the Independent told us. “Historic”, “a landmark”, a “much-needed morale booster”, the other papers chorused(1,2,3). The declaration agreed at the summit in Japan last week to protect the world’s wild species and wild places was proclaimed by almost everyone a great success. There’s only one problem: none of the journalists who made these claims has seen it.
I checked with as many of them as I could reach by phone: all they had read was a press release, which, though three pages long, is almost content-free(4). The reporters can’t be blamed for this: though it was approved on Friday, the declaration has still not been published. I’ve now pursued people on three continents to try to obtain it, without success. Having secured the headlines it wanted, the entire senior staff of the Convention on Biological Diversity has gone to ground: my calls and emails remain unanswered(5). The British government, which lavishly
A Ghost Agreement
Posted November 1, 2010 Everyone agrees that the new declaration on biodiversity is a triumph. Just one snag: it doesn’t appear to exist.
By George Monbiot, published in the Guardian 2nd November 2010
“Countries join forces to save life on Earth”, the front page of the Independent told us. “Historic”, “a landmark”, a “much-needed morale booster”, the other papers chorused(1,2,3). The declaration agreed at the summit in Japan last week to protect the world’s wild species and wild places was proclaimed by almost everyone a great success. There’s only one problem: none of the journalists who made these claims has seen it.
I checked with as many of them as I could reach by phone: all they had read was a press release, which, though three pages long, is almost content-free(4). The reporters can’t be blamed for this: though it was approved on Friday, the declaration has still not been published. I’ve now pursued people on three continents to try to obtain it, without success. Having secured the headlines it wanted, the entire senior staff of the Convention on Biological Diversity has gone to ground: my calls and emails remain unanswered(5). The British government, which lavishly
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)