Global warming and topics from Bali conference...

So in the end was there any progress at the Bali Climate Change Conference? Well, it seems to me, only from the perspective of low expectations.

In the end, there was agreement to negotiate a long-term global plan to address climate change over the next two years. So the U.S. successfully deflected European attempts to set real targets and developing nations, led by China, agreed to seek "measurable, reportable and verifiable" emission cuts.

Here's a summary of "agreements" from Bali, as reported by Reuters.

• Emissions targets remain unclear. In the face of U.S. opposition, the EU retreated from its initial demand to cut emissions by 25%-40% from 1990 levels by 2020. The final Bali agreement outlines six emissions-reduction targets but doesn't provide guidance as to specific goals the signatories will seek to acheive.


• Developed vs. developing countries. The draft states that "deep cuts in global emissions will be required" to prevent a dangerous climate change, but guidelines vary according to a country's level of industrialization. Developed countries should consider "quantified emission limitation and reduction objectives," and "nationally appropriate mitigation commitments or actions," while developing countries should consider "measurable, reportable, and verifiable nationally appropriate mitigation actions."


• Help for developing nations. Noting that many developing countries are already feeling the negative effects of global warming, the draft calls for "urgent implementation of [climate-]adaptation actions." Developed countries are strongly encouraged to share their climate-adaptation technologies with developing nations and to offer financial support for their implementation in the developing world.

Not much teeth and more waiting, it seems to me. What do you think?

Global warming and topics while we wait...

So what happens over the next two years while governments move at glacial pace and the glaciers melt even faster? Well, all is not gloom and doom. Aside from expecations of a changing in the presidential guard, the private sector and state governments in the US continue to move forward.

Global warming and topics: State Victory on Emissions Controls

As one example, last week a federal judge upheld California's right to control air pollution which was challenged by the auto industry. The ruling by a U.S. District Judge was a victory for 16 other states whose regulations on car emissions were modeled after California's 2002 statute. These 17 states represent nearly half the U.S. population. The state laws would effectively require automakers to cut greenhouse gas emissions nationwide, even in the face of the current administration's rejection of mandatory national standards.

See SF Chronicle Report of the Federal Court Ruling Here.

As countries negotiate over the next two years, many state and local governments will move ahead on emissions controls. Many companies, who see the risk of climate change as market opportunities, are also not waiting for leadership from the federal government.

A music video on global warming for reflection and some motivation to make a difference.