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Less is better
By Fu Jing (China Daily)
Updated: 2008-04-21 09:38 After marathon talks in Bangkok earlier this month, climate negotiators agreed on an ambitious agenda for future talks they hope will lead to a historic global warming pact, overcoming a heated dispute between Japan and developing countries how to cut greenhouse gas emissions. Japan insisted on industry-specific programs but the latter maintained that the rich countries should help the poor adapt to climate change impacts and shift to cleaner energy sources. "We have pinned hopes on Copenhagen," says Pachauri, referring to the Danish capital that will host the 2009 climate talks. Picking up China's lead on global warming last year, India plans to announce its national policy framework on climate change in June, Pachauri says. "It's very encouraging progress to be made by another major developing country following China's similar efforts last year." Like China, India is expected to give an overview on its approach to climate change, including commitments to saving energy, controlling emissions and packaging measures on how to achieve them. "We have seen a lot of commitment from developing countries such as China, India and Brazil and they should join in the global efforts," says Pachauri. He urges all countries to increase investment in research and technology, with which the world can minimize greenhouse gas emissions. The world is moving towards a low-carbon future and those companies that come up with low-carbon solutions ahead of the others will benefit most, he says. Business groups are urged to focus not only on how to adapt to climate change but also on the immediate actions to mitigate the effects of climate change. Khalid Malik, UN Resident Coordinator in China, notes that China has set clear targets for energy saving, the use of renewable energy and spelled out the political commitments to achieve its goals. "The major challenge China still faces is how to get the message down to the grassroots and turn it into action," Malik says. Pachauri says existing efforts by developed countries, such as the United States, don't mean they should start doing less. "In fact, they should make commitments and take the first steps," he says. Political commitments Ten state leaders including Chinese President Hu Jintao have expressed their commitments on making Asia and earth green. Hu says battling against global woes needs mutual understanding and "the BFA has played such a role". Kevin Rudd, Australian Prime Minister says Australia is committed to working with its regional partners as well as other countries to face the challenge of climate change. (For more biz stories, please visit Industries)
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