So, Copenhagen has been and gone.
Was it a failure, as many observers claim? OR,
Was it a step forward as claimed by many leaders and politicians ?
Probably, in truth, it is some of each. It would be fair to say that there was some progress, and that the worldwide position is better than it was 6 months ago. The USA, China, India and Brazil have agreed something. There is money on the table to assist poor countries. What has been agreed is described as a start.
However, all that has been agreed has to be a major disappointment to co-operators who care.
The Agreement is weak and lacking in appropriate targets. Co-operators called for a Fair, Ambitious and Binding Agreement - have we got one - No is the answer. There is insufficient ambition in emissions reductions and so, given that 20% of the world's population have caused 70% of the accumulated greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, it is clearly not Fair. Some co-operators are uncomfortable with the notion of Binding targets. However, none of us would dream of directing our co-ops in the absence of plans and budgets to inform everyone concerned of the organisation's objectives. Given the spectacle we have just observed in Copenhagen, there surely must be absolute clarity over what is expected of each country and what they have agreed to. Without this, it would quickly break down as countries took expedient decisions to avoid their contribution to the worldwide effort.
For further information on interpretations of Copenhagen access your own news stations or see:-
What happens next is not clear - ACT ! and the worldwide co-operative community will need to reflect on this. We will keep you informed.
One thing we can promise you is this - the need for co-operative leadership to address the Climate Threat is not diminished; It is just as important as ever, because the case for all of our governments to do the right thing is clearly not won sufficiently.
So, we will continue to support and encourage co-operatives to join together to maximise their contribution and impact ACT ! to Address the Climate Threat.