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Nov 03, 2009
Barcelona climate talks
African negotiators at the UN climate talks in Barcelona have refused to continue formal discussions about all other issues and are insisting instead that the talks focus on real carbon-reduction targets for rich countries.
Today in solidarity with Africa Friends of the Earth International held an action in support of African delegates’ insistence that developed countries commit to new, strong binding targets. Delegates and observers were invited to join a human shield against the killing of Kyoto targets and instead urged to promote at least 40% emission reductions with no offsets by 2020.
Kamese Geoffrey of NAPE/ Friends of the Earth Uganda warned:
"Rich countries are attempting to dodge their legal and moral responsibilities to reduce emissions. Developing countries and communities have historically had practically no fault in the creation of climate change, yet they will be the first to face the devastating impacts of climate change."
Millions of people are already being affected by climate change impacts such as floods and droughts.
Line Kirk of Young Friends of the Earth said:
"The world needs those responsible for climate change legally bound to act. Rich industrialised (Annex I) countries are proposing the replacement of a legally binding instrument with a voluntary pledge system, which will almost certainly spell disaster for the planet and all people. We demand our future is secured through strong new targets for rich countries - without offsetting - under the Kyoto Protocol."
further reading
Young Friends of the Earth Europe are also in Barcelona. Read their blog here
Read Kate Horner's blog from Friends of the US
