The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen ended today with disappointment. World leaders failed to sign a binding treaty to limit carbon emissions and fund critical adaptation projects that will help the world's poor -- those who contribute the least yet are most affected by climate change -- cope with the consequences of a warming planet. Instead, a vague, unenforceable agreement was reached that expresses the need to cap global warming at 2ºC, continue negotiations, and create an annual fund of $100 billion USD for adaptation. Responding to the summit's discouraging conclusion, Oxfam International Executive Director Jeremy Hobbs said, “The deal is a triumph of spin over substance. It recognizes the need to keep warming below 2 degrees but does not commit to do so. It kicks back the big decisions on emissions cuts and fudges the issue of climate cash." Click here to read Oxfam International's complete response.While Summit was a lost opportunity, the importance of international adaptation was recognized and the stage has been set for further talks. We're looking forward to continuing our campaign for climate justice in 2010, however this coming Monday, December 21st at 7PM, we'll celebrate our many accomplishments of 2009 at Common Roots Cafe (26th and Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis). Whether you're interested in becoming an Oxfam Action Corps volunteer or are just interested in learning more, please join us!
Copenhagen in the News:
AP, Climate talks end with eye on next year
Chicago Tribune, Climate talks leave unsettled atmosphere
Council on Foreign Relations, Examining the Copenhagen Accord
UN IRIN News, Goodbye Copenhagen, hello Mexico?
