Constructive negotiations are the only way to get a new global deal

With only 15 months to go before the big Copenhagen “Council of Parties” when heads of state need to sign onto a fair, effective, science-based new deal, progress on key elements is dangerously behind schedule.  But it sounds like some incremental progress was made.  We need some hopeful news.

The unusually colourful comments from WWF’s usually diplomatic and uber-patient policy coordinator told the tale.  Kathrin said “some grenade throwing by certain backward parties and an overdose of procedural discussions have paralyzed the climate talks and overwhelmed negotiations for too long” but that in Accra there was evidence of “constructive dialogue led by innovative parties…”. 

That’s UN-speak for the fact that some surprising countries are coming forward with leadership positions! Top of the list are some developing countries are (yes, China and others are part of the Kyoto Protocol and are prepared to contribute to solving this global problem). The un-precedence pledge by South Korea to set emission reduction targets and boost renewable energy is an amazing example.  And Norway and Switzerland are usurping European Union’s leadership position, which creates a great dynamic. 

It is this combination of progressive industrialized and big emerging economies that will form the new engine of the talks, and overcome the lack of ambition demonstrated by Canada, Russia, Japan, Australia and the US so far.

by Julia Langer