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UN talks in Bonn close - Friends of the Earth reaction
11 June 2010
Responding the close of the two weeks of UN climate talks in Bonn, Germany, today (Friday, 11 June 2010), Friends of the Earth Senior International Climate Campaigner Asad Rehman said:
"After two weeks of negotiations all we've seen is rich countries continuing to avoid committing to strong and fair action to combat climate change by pushing loopholes at every turn.
"The US Government has stonewalled every attempt to achieve a breakthrough that would secure measures to prevent climate catastrophe.
"The American position undermines the whole integrity of the UN framework for tackling climate change, and risks a weak climate agreement with voluntary pledges - leaving little or no chance of averting dangerous global warming.
"Many people are now beginning to wonder what progress can be if the US continues to play such a negative role - and whether, in fact, their opposition to strong and fair global action on climate change is so entrenched that those who can should move forward without the Americans.
"The time has come for the EU to move out of the shadow of the US and demonstrate real leadership - upping their cuts to at least 40 per cent by 2020, without resorting to dodgy tactics like carbon offsetting.
"This would stop the race to the bottom by countries like Russia, Australia and Japan, by showing that stronger action by those most responsible is possible."
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
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
Last modified: Jun 2010
