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Institute of Physics report on global emissions targets
29 September 2010
Commenting on the new report from the Institute of Physics suggesting that targets pledged in the Copenhagen Accord could lead to a 4.2 degree rise in global temperatures, Mike Childs, Head of Climate at Friends of the Earth, said:
"This report reconfirms warnings that climate campaigners were making before the ink was even dry on the Copenhagen Accord - that the weak voluntary targets in the Accord set us firmly on a path to catastrophic climate change.
"The best chance we have of preventing dangerous climate change is by agreeing strong and fair international action at the UN - the longer this is delayed, the more expensive and higher risk the effort of tackling climate change will be.
"Rich countries must fulfill their legal obligations under the Kyoto Protocol and commit to new targets to cut their emissions. These targets should be least 40 per cent by 2020 and should be met without resorting to offsetting.
"And rich countries must also provide funds to developing countries so that they, too, can develop cleanly and adapt to the effects of climate change already putting millions of people at risk."
Notes to editors:
Friends of the Earth is supporting the campaign for a tax on financial transactions - a Robin Hood Tax - to provide finance for developing countries to develop cleanly and adapt to the effects of climate change. For further information visit www.robinhoodtax.org.uk
Friends of the Earth believes the environment is for everyone. We want a healthy planet and a good quality of life for all those who live on it. We inspire people to act together for a thriving environment. Over 90 per cent of our income comes from individuals so we rely on donations to continue our vital work. For further information visit www.foe.co.uk
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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Sep 2010
