It’s no news that George W. Bush walked out on the Kyoto Protocol in 2001, almost destroying all efforts of everyone involved. And since then the our climate change endeavors have been teetering on extinction. What has happened over the past eight years? Once known as world leaders who would set precedence for others to follow, we are now struggling to get back on top.
Until now…
President Elect Obama has brought forth with his Presidential Election a promise of hope for all those that are in dire need of it. Personally, I have never seen so many organizations rejoice in the outcome of Nov. 4th. From Animal Rights to Women’s Rights to Children’s rights, all of these advocates are jumping up and down with the excitement of being able to move forward instead of having to start all over. And while all are thrilled to be working with this new administration, all deserve his immediate attention.
That said, there is one conference that is on the immediate calendar of December of 2008…The UN Climate Change Conference in Poland. This is when the world’s nations will gather in Poznan (Poland) next month to hammer out a draft agreement for the deadline of December 2009 for striking a new deal. This deal will incorporate updated information gathered since 1997. “Important continuing issues will be capacity-building for developing countries, reducing emissions from deforestation (REDD), technology transfer and adaptation.” – UNFCC
I believe that while President Elect Obama has a series of very important issues at hand, it is the of the utmost importance that we do not miss this opportunity to participate in this conference. It follows the same principle philosophy of “You can’t complain if you don’t vote.” This is our chance to make up for what was lost with the last administration. This is our first foreign policy issue that needs to be addressed by the Obama Administration.
Please urge President Elect Obama to not miss the opportunity to set the example that we so need and join the other leaders of the world to work out the details of a new treaty!
You can participate by signing the petition located on the right. Take this moment to let President Elect Obama know how important it is that we are represented at the conference!
UN climate chief seeks Obama input in December talks – AFP
