Progress possible in Bonn climate talks
30 July 2010
The odds for progress at the UN climate talks in Cancun this December are still good, says WWF, if governments focus on delivering key ingredients through a “Cancun package” that forms a stepping stone for a legal framework to be finalised at the end of 2011.
Delegates gathering for run-up negotiations in Bonn next week and in Tianjin, China, later this year need to take this opportunity to resolve long outstanding open issues.
“Cancun won't work if the world expects an all-or-nothing agreement , but it can be a solid stepping stone towards a legal framework for climate action in COP17 next year,” said Gordon Shepherd, Leader of WWF’s Global Climate Initiative.
“This year’s recipe for success includes breakthroughs on forest protection, adaptation to inevitable threats from climate change, and the beginning of real flows of finance for climate action.”
WWF sees particular potential for progress in negotiations over delivery of the promised US$30 billion per year in fast-start-funding for climate action, and in moves to secure innovative finance sources for long-term climate finance. Such progress could accelerate negotiations on other topics.
“A strong REDD mechanism to stop deforestation looks ready for harvest once the brackets around the negotiating text are removed, providing protection for forests and including safeguards for biodiversity and people's livelihoods”, said Shepherd.
“In addition, an adaptation framework has been within reach for a while, so talks in Bonn and Tianjin should prepare it for delivery in Cancun. This will provide vulnerable countries with the financial and technical support so that people and nature can continue to thrive and ward off threats.”
WWF also highlighted the greenhouse gas gigatonne gap between the emission cuts which countries are currently proposing, and what’s really needed for a smooth transition to a secure low-carbon economy. Solutions to plug the gap are available and governments must get to grips with them quickly.
With its domestic bill getting delayed the US may be losing momentum, but agreeing a strong climate deal under the UNFCCC doesn’t depend on just one country. “We can and should still expect the US to meet the commitments it made in Copenhagen in the global fight against climate change. Many other countries around the world are moving quickly to make the necessary climate resilient low-carbon transition, said Shepherd.
For further information:
Jo Sargent, Senior Press Officer, WWF-UK
Tel: 01483 412 383 Mobile: 07867 697 519
