Future:Media:Change

The NYTimes is reporting that President Obama will be in Copenhagen for COP15 and that he will:

“tell the delegates to the climate conference that the United States intends to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions ‘in the range of 17 percent below 2005 levels by 2020,’ according to a White House official.”

Obama attending is a strong signal of his administration’s commitment to the issue. However, the floated 17% reduction below 2005 levels by 2020 is well under the 25%-40%  reduction below 1990 levels the International Panel on Climate Change is recommending for developed countries and on the low end of proposed carbon emissions reduction goals from other countries (16%-23%). From one of the world’s top emitters, this is a soberly realistic goal rather than a hopeful or ambitious one. The arrival at 17% clearly stems from Sen. Baucus’ public support of the number. He has made other comments that he would be open to a larger reduction of 20% — as a “trigger” – if other nations “play by the same rules”. Not insignificant as he chairs the all-important Senate Finance Committee. Also necessary, given the need for Congress to approve any proposed cuts.

(PHOTO BY marcn)