We all know by now the United National Climate Change conference in Copenhagen ended without a legally binding agreement, but rather a political agreement that will see developed countries jointly mobilize US$100billion a year by 2020 and an additional US$30 billion for the period of 2010-2012 for adaption and mitigation in vulnerable countries.
However the agreement fell short in Africa’s eyes.
The Accord references 50 percent reduction of emissions by developed countries by 2050 compared to 1990 levels, with no immediate 2020 commitments. “It does not give legally binding commitments for industrialized countries and has no mid term targets” said Zambian Environment Minister Catherine Namugala. Africa and the rest of developing countries wanted the rich nations to cut emissions to at least 40 percent below the 1990 levels by 2020.
Africa also wanted deeper cuts by developed countries to reach at least 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. While the Accord recognizes the need to keep global temperature rise below two degrees, Africa says new climate studies show the dangers are even great than thought just a few years ago.
