Climate Change Talks in Durban Hit Roadblock Over Global Emissions Treaty

Strategic Insights -

The United Nations climate change talks in Durban were on the brink of collapse last night as China's chief negotiator rejected proposals for a new global treaty on greenhouse gas emissions. The negotiations, involving 194 countries, were seen as a critical test of the world's ability to agree on a new treaty to replace the Kyoto protocol, which expires at the end of next year. The proposal, which was rejected by China, would have led to the end of the Kyoto protocol and the introduction of a new treaty that would require all countries to cut emissions.

Key Takeaways:

  • China's chief negotiator, Su Wei, rejected proposals for a new global treaty on greenhouse gas emissions, citing concerns that it would lead to the end of the Kyoto protocol.
  • The rejection of the proposal means that the talks are likely to continue for a long night, with many countries still having concerns about the contents of the negotiating text.
  • The European Union was confident that it had the support of more than 120 countries, including developing economies, in pushing the deal through, but this may not be enough to secure agreement from all countries.
  • The rejection of the proposal is a significant setback for the UN climate change talks and may put the future of the Kyoto protocol at risk.
  • The US and other developed countries are happy to continue with a voluntary system of emissions reduction, but the EU and many developing nations are pushing for a new, legally binding treaty.
  • The EU is seeking a "second commitment period" under the Kyoto protocol, which would cover emissions from 2012 to 2020, but only if other countries agree to a roadmap for a new global agreement.

Statistics:

  • 194 countries are involved in the UN climate change talks in Durban.
  • The Kyoto protocol, the world's only existing treaty stipulating emissions cuts, expires at the end of next year.
  • Over 120 countries, including developing economies, may support the EU's proposal for a new, legally binding treaty.
  • The US and other developed countries have rejected the Kyoto protocol and are only committed to voluntary emissions reductions.
  • The proposed new treaty would require all countries to cut emissions, but the precise terms of the agreement are still unclear.

Sources:

  • The Guardian
  • Stephanie De Sakutin/AFP