Archived press release

Us risks becoming a rogue state over climate change

18 July 2001

Tony Blair must warn President George W Bush that his refusal to sign the Kyoto climate protocol means the United States risks becoming a rogue nation, Friends of the Earth said today. President Bush arrives in Britain tonight to renew the 'special relationship' between the two countries. Meanwhile,delegates from across the world are meeting in Bonn to try and salvage the protocol.

President Bush rejected the Kyoto Protocol - which would cut climate changing emissions - in March,saying that it would harm the US economy. The Protocol was opposed by a number of Bush's presidential backers, including Exxon (Esso). In order for Kyoto to enter into force, countries accounting for at least 55% of industrialised countries' emissions must ratify the treaty.

Despite assurances to the contrary, there are also concerns that the U.S. will try to persuade other nations to reject Kyoto, and thereby kill off the treaty. Japanese support for the treaty wavered after President Bush met the Prime Minister Koizumi last month. Without the US, Japanese participation is critical. FOE is also concerned that the US is putting pressure on Australia and Canada to raise objections to Kyoto.

Charles Secrett, Director of Friends of the Earth, said:

"Mr Blair has repeatedly said he wants to lead the world in agreeing action to fight dangerous climate change. He must use the 'special relationship' with the US to warn George Bush that America could become a rogue nation if it continues in refusing to cut climate pollution. He must also make it clear that US moves to prevent other nations signing the treaty would be intolerable. Climate change is one of the biggest threats the world faces. Urgent action is needed to avert catastrophe. The U.S is the world's biggest polluter. If America doesn't deliver on its global responsibilities the rest of the world will not forgive them."

Friends of the Earth, Greenpeace and People & Planet are backing the STOP ESSO campaign. This urges motorists to boycott Esso garages in protest at its opposition to the Kyoto Protocol. More information can be found at Stopesso.com

If you're a journalist looking for press information please contact the Friends of the Earth media team on 020 7566 1649.

Published by Friends of the Earth Trust