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Rich country targets 'dangerously inadequate'
9 June 2010
New analysis released by the UNFCCC Secretariat today (Wednesday 9 June 2010) shows rich country targets for cutting greenhouse gas emissions are even lower than previously estimated. Loopholes being discussed at international climate talks in Bonn would see rich countries make cuts of just 10-14 per cent by 2017 according to new analysis from the Bolivian Government, compared to the cuts of at least 40 per cent by 2020 that scientists say is needed to avoid climate catastrophe.
Responding to the new analysis, Friends of the Earth Senior International Climate Campaigner Asad Rehman said:
"This latest UN analysis makes grim reading - rich countries are putting international climate talks in jeopardy by trying to undermine the already weak targets being negotiated in Bonn.
"The proposals currently on the table are riddled with loopholes - so it's not surprising that current targets will do nothing to protect the world from climate disaster.
"Rich countries must urgently commit to cutting their emissions first and fastest - and the EU should lead by committing to 40 per cent cuts by 2020, without any of the dodgy offsetting mechanisms which make these targets barely worth the paper they're written on.
"The legal obligations enshrined in the Kyoto Protocol are the only way to ensure emissions targets are set fairly and in line with what the science say is necessary."
ENDS
Notes to editors:
1. 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 .
2. 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. For further information visit www.foe.co.uk .
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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Jun 2010
