US trying to destroy international efforts to save the climate

Our colleagues have been leaked information from a meeting in Bali tonight – the US is trying to destroy international efforts to tackle climate change. They are trying to insert text into the Kyoto Protocol that would make emissions cuts voluntary – as opposed to the current mandatory cuts.

The proposed US text includes the words ‘as appropriate’ and ‘may’ in reference to emissions cuts and is being presented to a meeting of the Friends of the President in Bali tonight. Here it is:

(b) enhanced action on mitigation of climate change, and the means to recognise such action, in the context of sustainable development, including, inter alia, consideration of:

(i) effective, measurable and reportable domestic mitigation actions, [depending on the level of economic development and significance] [ depending on the level of economic development and GHG contributions][depending on the level of economic development and energy utilisation][in accordance with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and responsive capabilities]:

(a) including, as appropriate, quantified national emission limitation and reduction objectives, taking into account national circumstances and relative level of efforts;

(b) including, as appropriate, domestic plans and measures that may include binding, market-based and sectoral programs; and

(c) supported, as appropriate, by external technology, financing and capacity building.

If the United States succeeds tonight, the post-2012 agreement will allow any nation to opt out and continue to pollute with abandon.

As Al Gore said today at the Bali meeting: "My own country, the United States is principally responsible for obstructing progress here in Bali. We all know that. But my country is not the only one that can take steps to ensure that we move forward from Bali with progress and with hope."

If they get this text through the conference then the next treaty won’t be worth the paper it’s written on because it will give a free pass to any nation that wants to keep polluting. It is time for all other nations in Bali to ignore attempts by the US to dismantle efforts to save the climate.