Originally issued as a CGS press release on May 17, 2005.
Citizens for Global Solutions calls for U.S. Representation at Bonn, Germany
WASHINGTON, DC – While the environmental Ministers of 190 nations gathered in Bonn, Germany over the past two days, to discuss next steps on global climate change after the expiration of the Kyoto Protocol in 2012, the United States once again was conspicuously absent. This absence from the decision-making table is yet another wasted opportunity for America to be involved in international approaches to climate security, and a setback for addressing environmental concerns, post-Kyoto. Citizens for Global Solutions calls on the U.S. to end its global isolation on climate change, to use the Bonn meetings to reengage with the international community, and to tackle both today’s environmental challenges as well as those that will follow Kyoto.
Charles Brown, President and CEO of Citizens for Global Solutions noted, “United States cooperation with other countries and international institutions is an essential element in finding solutions to global environmental challenges. To not be engaged on this vital issue is to pass a tremendous burden to successive generations. America must not only use its amazing technological and scientific resources, but also work with others to forge a comprehensive, long-term climate strategy. ”
The United States is one of only the two major industrialized nations in the world, along with Australia, that has not ratified the Kyoto Protocol. Under Kyoto, industrialized nations agree to limit emissions of heat-trapping gases to prevent global climate change, which scientists have predicted will affect agricultural production, extreme weather events, and sea levels. In 2001, President Bush pulled out of Kyoto, saying it would hurt the U.S. economy and placed too few requirements on developing countries. On February 16, 2005, Kyoto went into effect with 150 signatories but without the U.S. changing its stance. Now, as the rest of the world begins to plot post-Kyoto environmental policy, America continues to be relatively alone in its stance. Citizens for Global Solutions urges Washington to end this absence.
As Mr. Brown notes: “Climate change is a real problem. To remain disengaged while the rest of the world moves forward is to abandon America’s historic role as a leader and advocate for international cooperation. While some in America have addressed this issue, much more is needed from Washington.”
America has taken some steps to address the issue of climate change. In 2005 alone, Congress committed $5.2 billion to climate and energy specific research. And on May 16, 2005, 132 U.S. mayors pledged to enforce Kyoto’s regulations in their own cities, vowing to drastically reduce greenhouse gases, at least on a local level. Citizens for Global Solutions applauds their devotion and commitment to sustainability. In addition, we urge the Bush Administration and others in Washington to follow this example and work with the rest of the world on this increasingly global problem.
