The Kyoto Protocol

Why did Russia decide to back the treaty?

-Strong EU support for Russia to join the WTO -Make money selling credits

What is emissions trading

Emissions trading works by allowing countries to buy and sell their agreed allowances on greenhouse gas emissions

When did the Kyoto Protocol come into force?

Febuary 16, 2005

Why did the US pull out?

George Bush said -it would gravely damage the US economy. -He did not think it was fair that non industrialized countries did not have to cut emissions (china, India). -backs voluntary action and new technologies

What was the foundation of the Kyoto Protocol?

It grew out of several meetings of world leaders to discuss environmental challenges

Who is affected by the Kyoto Protocol

It was ratified by 140 nations but its restrictions only apply to 35. The treaty does not apply to developing countries.

How much difference will Kyoto make?

Many environmental scientist say that without the US, the treaty is virtually obsolete. They need to cut around 60% of emissions across the board. Could impact the future negotiations.

What will the ceremony marking the law include?

Speakers and governments of participating countries will hold workshops and events to shape future environmental-friendly policies

what about poor countries?

The agreement acknowledges that developing countries contribute least to climate change but will likely suffer most from its effects

Why is global warming a problem

The rise in the world's temperatures could cause storms, droughts and weather-related disasters. Climate shifts may also disrupt farming and change the life patterns of animals and plants

The US response

a bill in senate that would reduce carbon emission levels. Also, some states, like California and North Eastern states, are developing laws and programs to regulate cars and power plants

Kyoto Protocol

an international agreement setting targets for industrialized countries to cut their greenhouse gas emissions

What are the targets?

industrialized countries have agreed to cut emissions 5% below their 1990 levels

Have the targets been achieved?

sort of. There has been an overall 3% decrease. But this is because of the collapse of the Soviet Union. The rich countries are well off target and are projected to increase emissions by 10% by 2010. Also, the USA has backed out of the treaty.

what is global warming?

the warming of the earth by man-made emissions suchs as carbon dioxide released from the burning of fossil fuels