WWF statement on US financing announcement at COP15

“The commitment to long-term, significant and transparent financing was a real, positive game changer by Secretary Clinton. The conference was on the verge of collapse before her intervention. Now it’s time for the government of Canada to step up and play the constructive role that Canadians expect their leaders to play.”

The two main issues on the table in Copenhagen are national commitments to reduce emissions and financing for poorer countries. While Canada still needs to put forward a greater level of ambition with respect to making the transition to a low-carbon economy at home, the Canadian government could make a positive move now by agreeing to match the US commitment to long-term, stable financing for climate change adaptation and mitigation in developing countries. Based on our historic contribution to climate change, Canada’s share of these international funds should be at least 3 to 4 percent of the total amount.

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For further information:

**WWF-Canada President and CEO, Gerald Butts, and Dr. Keith Stewart, Climate Change Program Director, are available all week-end for comment on the outcome of Copenhagen, what to expect next, Canada’s role and next steps, as well as what this means for the G8/G20 Conference in Ontario next year.

Tara Wood, Head of Press, WWF-Canada, 416-484-7710, [email protected]

Keith Stewart, Director, Climate Change Program, WWF-Canada, 647-328-5518, [email protected]