Abstract
The Kyoto Treaty was drawn up in Japan in 1997. It commits industrialized nations to reducing emissions of greenhouse gasses (mostly carbon dioxide) by 5.2% below the 1990 levels over the next decade. The agreement needed to be ratified by countries that are responsible for at least 55% of carbon emissions in 1990 to come into force. Although the future of the treaty was in doubt after the US withdrawal from negotiations in 2001, the recent signing of a major Eurasian power has put the treaty into effect. Currently, only those countries that have signed the treaty are obligated to follow its provisions.
The US produced 36% of all emissions in 1990, making it the world’s biggest polluter. In 2001, President George W. Bush announced that the US would never sign the treaty. President Obama has yet to engage this issue. Now, scientists predict an increase in global surface temperature of between 1.4 to 5.8 degrees by 2100. Many others note that climate modeling is an inexact science.
To give the world an economic incentive to act, the WTO (World Trade Organization) is being brought into the equation. The WTO is an organization (supranational) for liberalizing trade. All member nations of the WTO benefit from reduced trade barriers. Indeed the stated purpose of the WTO is to help trade flow as freely as possible.
Free trade stimulates economic growth. It has been shown that jobs generated by international trade pay more. Other clear advantages of WTO membership are lower prices on goods imported, greater competitiveness internationally, and increased growth for the economy of each nation. With these clear and obvious advantages, membership in the WTO is critical, and supports a significant portion of each nations GNP. Loss of this membership could have profound implications economically for a country, and most importantly, its citizens.
Should the original 1997 Kyoto Protocol, and later the 2007 Bali Roadmap on climate change
a. be rejected by the international community
b. be accepted and implemented with enforced sanction of loss of membership in the
WTO for non-compliance.
The Bali Roadmap
Cant we all just breathe along?
The threat of loss of membership in the WTO will not deter nations that are not members to begin with.
ReplyDeleteU.S. and China, although allies, do disagree on this point. This may show up in future advocation of how to improve the global community. China, who seems to need more carbon than the U.S., is willing to improve, while the U.S., who didn't need as much to begin with, may find tiself in a tight corner, incapable of betterment.
ReplyDeleteI don't know about WTO membership loss as a sanction, but the reduction of greenhouse gasses must be accepted by the entire global community. Malaysia is a country that would be sorely affected by the consequences of not reducing carbon emmissions
ReplyDeleteUzbekistan ratified the Kyoto Protocol which will help with the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (which they support).
ReplyDeleteThough Palestine is not a country, it approves of the Kyoto Protocol (the Bali Roadmap) since climate change poses a very great threat to it.
ReplyDeleteAlthough Yemen only accounts for .1% of global emmissions, Yemen has signed the Kyoto Protocol (Bali Roadmap).
ReplyDeleteWhile South Korea underwent massive industrialization, pollution became a big issue. It has learned from Japan how to improve pollution, and adapt it for its exports. Unfortunately, China has added to S. Korea's problems, as their pollution strongly affects South Korea's territory by eastern blowing winds.
ReplyDeleteArmenia approves of the Kyoto Protocol! The climate change will adversely affect Armenia's whole economy. Although Armenia has no obligations for greenhouse gas emission reduction, they are ready to undertake any obligations for their limitation with help from other countries.
ReplyDeleteyeeeeee boiiii
Chinese leaders urges the international community to follow the Bali Roadmap.
ReplyDelete*urge--sorry to mistype. I almost never do...
ReplyDelete...says the country that builds two coal power plants a week to meet demand.
ReplyDeleteLosing a place at the WTO table will result in costs of doing business going way up. Many nations will do a lot to not lose their membership. This (loss of membership in the WTO) might be more expensive than the cost of coming into compliance with the Bali Roadmap and its standards.
ReplyDeleteMALAYSIA
ReplyDeleteTINA WELSH
YOUNGBLOOD
As of May 3, 2009, the country of Malaysia, on the issue of Bali Roadmap/Kyoto Protocol supports the treaty and its international acceptance.
The Bali Roadmap/Kyoto Protocol refers to carbon and greenhouse gas emissions on a global scale. Although Malaysia is a developing country, and therefore has no quantitative commitments to the UNFCCC, we are one of the countries that are affected most by this issue. As a country with a tropical climate and a great deal of coastline, Malaysia has a lot to lose if global warming is not dealt with immediately. Tropical diseases, such as malaria, dengue fever and jaundice, are expected to be on the rise as global temperatures increase. Transmitters of these diseases, such as mosquitoes will spread as more climates become suited to them. Malaysia is also expected to loose 1200 square kilometers of coastline to rising sea levels if actions are not taken to stop global warming.
The 2009 Eurasian Conference should vote to accept and implement the Bali Roadmap because this issue affects every country and every group of people. Along with tropical diseases, respiratory ailments and allergies are expected to rise due to increased heat, air pollutants, spores and dust. 45% of the global populations currently live in high-risk areas, but if increasing temperatures and greenhouse gases are not checked, the figure could grow to 60%. As global temperatures rise, water availability will probably drop between 13% and 53%. Reduced rainfall, expected to drop by 10%, will affect every nation, from those already disputing over drinking water to those dependant on agriculture or fishing.
ARMENIA
ReplyDeleteOLIVIA ROBERTS
YOUNGBLOOD
As of May 3, 2009, the country of Armenia, on the issue of the Bali Roadmap, supports the treaty in the effort of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the climate change.
One may think that Armenia does not have a significant interest on the issue of the Bali roadmap because it is such a small country. The fact is that the climate change is greatly affecting us and unfortunately in a negative way. With the decline of the precipitation rate, our climate-dependent sectors can’t produce efficient crops, which leads to a drawback on our entire economy. Greenhouse gas emission reduction isn’t a duty that our country has undertaken, but if we are able to receive help from other countries, we will comply with any stipulations for their limitation. The Bali Roadmap should be acknowledged and put into effect with enforced acceptance. If a member of the WTO does not obey, they should lose their membership.
Every country, no matter how big or small, should join in with Armenia in following the Bali Roadmap. The climate change is a critical issue and commands immediate attention. It is obvious that awareness is necessary and that urgent measures are required. The possibility of losing a membership in the WTO is not worth the risk. Abiding by the standards of the Bali Roadmap is the right choice. We all can better the earth by contributing to global projects and supporting one another.
SERBIA
ReplyDeleteSYDNEY BRIOT
HAMMONS
As of May 5, 2009, the country of Serbia, on the issue of Bali Roadmap, fully supports the treaty and its international cooperation.
While Serbia is a small and seemingly unimportant country, that does not mean it is not affected by global climate change. Serbia’s surface area is about 70% arable farmland, but with global climate change wrecking havoc all over the world, that could soon be reduced dramatically. A large portion of Serbia’s economy depends on being able to grow crops like fruit to make wine, wheat, corn, and sugar beets, and also to be able to produce livestock. Almost 20% of Serbia’s labor force are in the agricultural field. That means if global climate change continues to get exponentially worse, at least 20% of Serbia’s population is out of a job. Serbia understands that global greenhouse gas emissions have increased practically 70% between 1970 and 2004, which is evidence that human influence is mostly to blame. Serbia wants to help reverse these staggering figures.
All countries in the 2009 Eurasian Conference should join Serbia to help combat the startling effects of global climate change by supporting the Bali Roadmap. This issue affects every single country in the world, whether they realize it yet or not. The rising of the seas, the pollution in the air, and the depletion of the ozone layer are only a few of the many things that will continue to get worse unless we take action and start to fight it. Along with having the planet become sicker and sicker, possibly losing a spot in the WTO will further worsen your country’s pull in global politics. Do the right thing and protect your only home, the Earth.
Wise men never fall in love so how are they to know?
ReplyDeleteIran
ReplyDeleteMike Schrieber
Scott
As of May 5, 2009, Iran, on the issue of the Bali Roadmap, supports the treaty and the positive reception of it by all countries.
Iran believes that all countries should join the Bali Roadmap, as it would help protect the deteriorating environment. Though Iran is mostly arid, they rely heavily on their agriculture as it is one of their biggest industries and employs 25% of the population. Seeing that agriculture needs good climate to help and improve the market, Iran supported the Kyoto protocol and now the Bali Roadmap. The many countries rejecting these treaties are ignorant in noticing how many emissions their country and the world is releasing and that the amount of greenhouse gas has gone up as the world has needed to utilize more energy. Iran understands that people directly effect the environment and has taken the first step to lower its greenhouse gas emissions.
Seeing that the environment affects every country on this world, Iran feels that every country should join them in supporting the Bali Roadmap. As global warming and many other environmental issues are becoming a bigger threat, Iran and many other countries feel that they can save the environment by pushing themselves to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions. These environment friendly countries believe that if every modern country could do this, it would be one of many steps toward saving our planet. If every country tried to save the environment, and all countries helped one another in the fight to save the earth, it would unite everyone and make saving the environment easier and it could be done with sights on a better outcome.
SOUTH KOREA
ReplyDeleteELLEN COOK
HAMMONS
As of May 5th, 2009, the country of South Korea, on the issue the Bali Roadmap, supports the international acceptance of the Kyoto Protocol and the Bali Roadmap to help improve the global climate.
South Korea is currently the world’s 9th largest producer of green house gases, but has made huge improvements over the last years to further develop our country. In South Korea there are now certain restrictions on businesses to the amount of greenhouse gases that can be emitted. This is a big risk for our country because it will affect our steel, petrochemical, and electric power industry. South Korea is trying to transfer into a low carbon society which is taking a great deal of investments and we would like recognition from the international society. Although at the same time this transition is helping South Korea to become an advanced country and allow us to develop further. South Korea knows that by reducing greenhouse gases it will allow them to become a more advanced country so they have decided to follow the Bali Roadmap and the Kyoto Protocol.
Many of the countries in the Eurasian conference should be concerned for the climate because of global warming and the Bali Roadmap would enable countries to become more developed. If there was a sanction of dismemberment from the WTO, then it would encourage more countries to follow through because of the importance of the WTO. There are 190 countries that have agreed to follow this, but the importance needs to be stressed with this sanction. Many countries depend on their agriculture which greenhouse gases could affect, and the global warming also affects those depending on water resources found in their country, such as South Korea. If every country lived by the Bali Roadmap then it would dramatically improve the global climate.
FRANCE
ReplyDeleteLILAH GONEN
YOUNGBLOOD
As of December 4, 2007, the country of France, on the issue of the Bali Roadmap, is supportive.
Climate change is a hot topic for many today, including the country of France. The Bali Roadmap is a plan which establishes a process of negotiations starting from the end of 2009 to post-2012 regarding the issue of global climate change, and is a plan that France welcomes with open arms. Shortly before the Bali Conference in December of 2007, the International Panel of experts on Climate Change (IPCC) published a report which confirmed climate change to be a serious threat to our planet. France, following suit with many others in the European Union has taken this information seriously and wholeheartedly supports the adoption of the Bali Roadmap. We want to make this planet a safer and healthier place to live by, specifically, implementing the Kyoto Protocol, an environmental treaty issued by the United Nations focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, for the period of 2008-2012, sticking to the “roadmap” and creating plans for post-2012, and taking the needs and services of emerging and developing countries into consideration.
Global climate change is an issue that affects us all, no matter our color, creed, or circumstance, and will ultimately impact us in a negative manner. It only makes sense, therefore, for every country to be in support of a doctrine that will make our planet a safer and more livable environment. Many say that becoming “eco-friendly” is expensive and will take a toll on a nation’s economy, but what is an economy without healthy citizens or a working environment from which to make a living from? It seems quite logical to, instead of exploiting our resources for our personal, selfish, and temporary gain, work with our surroundings to positively benefit everyone for much longer periods of time. It really is the only way makes sense.
ALGERIA
ReplyDeleteMIKE DIALLO
HAMMONS
As of May 5, 2009, the country of Algeria, on the issue of The Bali Roadmap, supports that the proposed plans be accepted and implemented with enforced sanction of loss of membership in the WTO for non-compliance.
Algeria recognizes climate change to be one of most serious factors affecting the global community at this time and we will not standby as oblivious nations pollute the air we all breathe. As an environmentally conscious state, we see the struggles that must face. In Northern Algeria the coastline is extremely venerable to this problem due to the high percentage of its population residing there. Meanwhile the southern part of Algeria is also expected to experience the effects of climate change if things don’t change. These are challenges our state is prepared to meet with solutions like Natural Gas as an alternative to Petroleum products.
In the earlier paragraph I outlined many problems due to climate change however one must remember that those are only in Algeria, many states have those problems and more. We need a global standard to adhere to, and a clean one at that. The Bali Roadmap is a proposal, made to not only decrease the chance of a drop in living standards worldwide, but also to raise the health rate on an international level. We, as representatives of our respective nations, must take into account the livelihood of each individual of our country, and make decisions that will benefit even them. Algeria supports this proposal because it will bring a new life to a world that is suffering.
VIETNAM
ReplyDeleteMICHAEL BANH
JESSE SCOTT
As of May 5, 2009, the country of Vietnam, on the issue of the Bali Roadmap, supports the treaty and the international community’s decision to help reduce greenhouse gases
Vietnam is one of the top five most-hit countries affected by climate change-caused sea level rise. If the increase of greenhouse gases were to continue, the resulting rising sea levels due to climate change will be problematic and catastrophic for Vietnam.. If the international community were to reject the idea of reducing CO², Vietnam will lose 12-15 million tons of rice per year because of the changing sea level. 20 million people will lose their homes in the process costing $17 billion a year in damages and various coastal regions will be submerged. Vietnam has proposed to the ten largest CO² emmisioners among the OECD countries that they set up a program to help reduce greenhouse gases.
Climate change and greenhouse gases are a problem for Vietnam, but it also affects the entire international community. If we were to continue creating more greenhouse gases, it would cause destruction to the countries affected by rising sea levels and countries affected by rising climate and pollution. The Eurasian Conference should work together to help reduce CO² in our planet not only for the benefit for the future, but for the risk of losing membership in the WTO. Lost membership in the WTO could cause even more problems for the country while adding on to the risk of rising climate change and sea levels. If we were to all work together, we could create a cleaner environment for everybody in our world to live in.
UZBEKISTAN
ReplyDeleteEVAN ONACLEA
HAMMONS
As of 5/5/09, the country of Uzbekistan, on the issue of the Bali Roadmap, supports the treaty and believes in the reduction of the human impact on nature.
Uzbekistan has been a member of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change since 1993, when it first became an independent nation, and after ratifying the Kyoto Protocol in 1999 it has had experts and scientists working extensively on monitoring and regulating greenhouse gases.Uzbekistan understands the need and urgency to use eco-friendly forms of energy and implement ecologically sound ways of life in general.The recent air temperature increase of 1.5-2.0 degrees Celsius in many regions of Uzbekistan will make important desert grassland ecosystems deteriorate, harbor loss of grazing fields for cows and other livestock, and less water for in the rivers. The CO2 emissions will, in effect, lengthen and increase the growing season through rampant photosynthesis, but there is not enough water to utilize this beneficial advantage. The Aral Sea is at about half its normal surface volume, going from 67,000 sq. feet to 30,000 no, because of dams built along the Syr-Darya and Amu-Darya rivers in the 1960's by the Soviets to irrigate farmland. Glacial melt has caused the loss of over 30% of ice reserves in the Aral Basin. Floods from abnormally high rainfall in the mountains are messing up the alpine ecosystems. Arid regions of Uzbekistan are predicted to have incrementally less rainfall in the future. This is all because of the overly large extent that civilization has affected nature.
An essential thing to consider is how extremely universal the affect of this issue is around the world. With the steadily increasing world population there is going to be less water and less resources, so we need to be more sustainable and conscious of our actions. Widespread illness from dirty drinking water and rising temperatures along with dwindling irrigation due to evaporation and overpopulation is also a very pressing international issue that needs to be collaborated on and resolved by the strength and innovation of unity. Uzbekistan is planning to go to the final conference in 2009 in Denmark about the Bali Roadmap. My country wants to continue the rewarding struggle for balance/coexistence of nature and society by prevailing, even when the Kyoto Protocal ends in 2010. So, in accordance with this, Uzbekistan thinks that WTO members shouldn't be allowed to participant if the don't agree to the Bali Roadmap.
THE UNITED KINGDOM
ReplyDeleteLAURA ROBERTSON
SCOTT
As of May 5, 2009, the country of the UK, on the issue of the Bali Roadmap, supports the excepting of the Bali Roadmap treaty.
The UK wants to decrease the amount of greenhouse gases admitted into the world by highly industrialized countries. With such drastic needs to help slow down global warming, the UK , with Japan and other EU countries, has promised to cut down by 8% from their 1990 admissions. Also all EU countries, including the UK, have set up regulations where 12,000 factories and power stations are given a carbon dioxide quota. If the quota is exceeded a penalty will be given to that industry, but if they are below they receive some reward. The United Kingdom is behind the idea of enforcing membership to the Bali Roadmap treaty by putting WTO memberships at risk. They especially want to have the US be part of the treaty since the UK and the US are usually in agreement about world issues. The UK as supportive of the Kyoto Protocol, then the Bali Roadmap, and will be supportive of any new treaty that'll help with the world's GHG.
At the Eurasian Conference, the Bali Roadmap should be supported by all countries. It will be especially essential to get the US to except it since they are such a big power in the world, and have much greenhouse gases. With the rise in temperatures, we will soon be seeing more flooding with the rise of sea levels which will be partially due to glacier melting. Also agriculture will be affected by the change of temperature since they rely on a strict temperature range to grow, and so crops will start to fail. Most importantly human health is becoming more at risk. Disease won't be killed off my the cold temperatures anymore, bringing more deaths to humans. Overall by excepting the treaty all nations of the world will have long lasting benefits.
KAZAKHSTAN
ReplyDeleteLUKE CONNOLLY
YOUNGBLOOD
As of May 6th 2009, Kazakhstan supports the acceptance of the Bali Roadmap and the loss of membership from the WTO for non-compliance on this issue.
The world is in a near crisis right now, financially and environmentally. The Bali Roadmap is something that will bring together the powers of the world and get out of our crisis by becoming more earth friendly. Kazakhstan is the 14th largest producer of greenhouse gasses in the world and the leaders believe it is time to start building new earth-friendly material while the economy is down. Kazakhstan would like to follow the likes of China and India and put much of their money in to new jobs that would be used to create and rebuild infrastructure. The leaders of Kazakhstan know that they cannot start on their own and they need much assistance from other powers, so they are willing to push other nations to start being more friendly to the beautiful earth we all live on.
During the 2009 Eurasian Conference, the leaders of the world must accept the Bali Roadmap and the world must act accordingly to save our planet from an environmental travesty. This issue is one that affects everyone and everyone must take action on helping saving our planet. The greenhouse gas let out in to our atmosphere has to be drastically slowed down and this can only happen if every country agrees to work on this issue. If a country doesn’t abide to signing the Kyoto Protocol, then they will be sanctioned by being kicked out of the World Trade Organization. This will affect that country greatly by disallowing them from being in such a high regarded organization. Every country should join Kazakhstan in fighting the crisis that has greatly affected the health of our planet.
EGYPT
ReplyDeleteALISA STEWART
LAWLESS
As of May 6, 2009, Egypt, on the issue of the Bali Roadmap, is in agreement with the acceptance and implementation of enforced sanctions for loss of membership in the WTO for non-compliance.
Egypt was one of the first Arab countries to sign the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change [UNFCCC] in 1994. To comply with its commitments, Egypt formed the National Committee on Climate Change and the Egyptian Council on the Clean Development Mechanism. Egypt has more environmental projects underway and institutions to run them than any other Arab or African country. Egypt is also actively promoting the use of solar energy and wind, and of natural gas, a less polluting source of energy than other fossil fuel. These are only a few of the ways in which Egypt is committed to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. As a strong member of the WTO, Egypt is in line for economic growth and development, trying to liberalize trade and reduce barriers. Since the WTO supports the Bali Roadmap treaty, Egypt does as well.
The Kyoto Protocol Treaty encourages industrialized nations to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions below those in 1990 by 5.2%. This might help reduce the Earth’s building surface temperature, which scientist predict will increase alarmingly by 2100. As an added incentive to comply with the treaty, the WTO (World Trade Organization) – which is focused on liberalizing trade and stimulating economic growth – has been added, giving free trade, lower prices, and better jobs. They support a significant amount of the GNP of many nations, meaning that losing WTO membership could have profound repercussions on a nation’s economy. If an organization as important as the WTO values such a plan as the Bali Roadmap so highly, should we not also? The effects of greenhouse gasses on the world affect every aspect of our life, and we should do whatever we can do to reduce emissions. This includes enforcing the treaty in any way necessary to reach the important goal of a cleaner, safer environment.
moo.
ReplyDeleteso who's gonna say no to the treaty? anyone?
ReplyDeleteEMILY BECKSTRAND
ReplyDeleteTHE PHILIPPINES
LAWLESS
As of May 6, 2009, the country of the Philippines, on the issue of the Bali Road map, supports the admittance and implementation of the treaty, and the enforced sanctions for loss of membership in the WTO for non-compliance.
The Philippines is a country who heavily depends on the climate for food and income. With the increasing rise of greenhouse gas emission and surface temperature, this leads to the melting of the polar ice caps. When the ice melts, the sea level rises. The Philippines is home to hundreds of coastal cities, and an increase in tidal waves, typhoons and floods due to greenhouse gases, would not only have drastic effects on the Philippines but also her surrounding island neighbors, economically and geographically. With a large percentage of Filipino population in debt, the Philippines cannot afford a sudden climate change. Already the first stages of a unusual climate change has occurred in the Philippines, with sudden tidal waves taking place in coastal areas. This has become a major problem to fishing communities, as the fish population has been dwindling slowly from these storms.
With the addition of the World Trade Organization, (WTO) in the treaty, they offer lower prices, free trade, offer wider and better job opprotunities and also stimulate economic growth. They offer support for many countries and the passing of the Bali Roadmap treaty, so membership is critical. Many are unaware that the greenhouse gas production coming from larger, more populated and more industrialized countries is having drastic effects on the countries who depend on a regular climate for support and income. The Bali Roadmap is a safer, cleaner choice that can help the world get back on track for a healthier environment.
TESSA BIEHL
ReplyDeletePAKISTAN
LAWLESS
As of May 6,2009 Pakistan supports the Bali Road Map.
Pakistan is experiencing the climate change full on. The geological change has greatly affected our annual GDP, and our people’s livelihood. Pakistan has made it known we are for working towards a cleaner planet and a more stable environment. At the 14th session of the climate change convention Pakistan portrayed it’s willingness to continue the work of the Bali Roadmap to reach a conclusion at the 15th meeting. With the economy affected, regions are becoming unstable and conflict ridden. Pakistan plays a central role in the stability of the Middle East. The well being and state of Pakistan and its citizens will have an effect not only on neighboring countries, but the world. The people of Pakistan have made climate issues a major focus in their manifesto for the 2008 elections. If a cleaner stabiler Pakistan is going to be achieved additional outside support will be a necessity. The climate will continue to be top priority for Pakistan’s government.
RUSSIA
ReplyDeleteKAITLIN MONTOYA
LAWLESS
As of May 5, 2009, the country of Russia, on the issue of the Bali Roadmap, does not support the treaty.
Almost every country in the world sees the Bali Roadmap as being this great thing. Everyone fears that a climate change will be disastrous. Russia sees the climate change as being something really great. The shift in climate zones could provide more agriculture and resource opportunities by opening up the Russian Arctic. An opportunity like this would reap great benefits. To go along with this, Russia wants to continue to increase oil imports/exports as well as electricity production. Supporting the Bali Roadmap will eliminate any opportunities to do so.
Every country should join Russia in standing against the Bali Roadmap. Every situation listed in the paragraph above will benefit countries in different ways. If parts of the Russian Arctic are opened, it would provide resources to every country that works and trades with Russia. An increase in oil imports/exports will benefit oil trading countries that are close with Russia. Every opportunity that comes from standing against the Bali Roadmap helps many countries around the world. Why would you want to eliminate these opportunities and resources when they will benefit your country? Nothing good will come from supporting the Bali Roadmap; we have to stand against it.
JAPAN
ReplyDeleteMARGIE GILLESPIE
CURTIS
As of May 6th, 2009, the country of Japan, on the issue of the Bali Roadmap/Kyoto Protocol, fully accepts the proposal to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and diminish climate change with the consequence for non-compliance being removal of membership from the WTO.
Ever since the Kyoto Treaty was drawn up in 1997, Japan has heavily supported all efforts against climate change. Japan believes that reducing emissions of greenhouse gases is vital to the future of our planet. All incentives and consequences that are implied in order to maintain this progress towards a non-changing climate are fully necessary. In order to make sure Japan plays its proper role, the Environment Minister Ichiro Kamoshita has begun to develop a plan that will give Japanese industries more reason to participate in reducing their gases. This plan includes an emissions indicator for each industry and a program that will publish all the names of businesses that fail to reduce their gases. The Environment Ministry is also promoting the use of bioethanol, an alcohol made from sugarcane and sawdust. The ministry plans to make all gasoline sold in Japan E3 (bioethanol) by 2012. Along with the promotion of environmentally advanced gasoline, Japan has been working on using sequestration, flat-panel liquid-crystal display televisions, and wind power all of which help reduce emissions of greenhouse gases.
The Bali Roadmap issue should be supported at the Eurasian conference because it is beneficial to almost every country. Global warming is an issue that is affecting every country in the WTO as well as other countries around the world. In order to change what is happening to our planet every member’s compliance is needed. The WTO is a prestigious organization and being a member is considered a worldly accomplishment. Sanctioning the termination of membership due to non-compliance with the Bali Roadmap would provide the necessary incentive for each country. Climate change is occurring at this very moment and is affecting our daily lives, without a change in the way humans treat the environment our planet’s future could be in jeopardy.
NORWAY
ReplyDeleteKATY CHEUNG
LAWLESS
As of May 6, 2009, the country of Norway, on issue of the Bali Roadmap/Kyoto Protocol, supports the treaty and its international acceptance.
The Kyoto Protocol was an international environmental treaty created in the United Nations Conference in hopes to achieve stabilization of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere. It was necessary to keep them at a level that would prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system. Currently, the Bali Roadmap has been made to take up where the Kyoto treaty left off. It includes measures for preserving tropical rainforests and helping poor countries adapt to a green economy. Although the carbon emissions haven’t had an extremely horrible affect on the area of Norway, we believe as a “green” and rich country, we must take responsibility for our actions and protect the future of our fragile planet. As Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg has stated, “We have the will; we have the means; and we have the determination to act.”
We believe that Bali Roadmap on climate change should be accepted and implemented with enforced sanction of loss of membership in the WTO for non-compliance. Although Norway is ranked 12th in the 2004 list of countries by carbon dioxide emissions per capita, we have signed the Kyoto Protocol and have agreed to reduce our carbon emissions to no more than 1% above 1990 levels by 2012. Furthermore, we have proposed that Norway should become carbon neutral by 2050, and called upon other rich countries to do likewise. With carbon emissions at a dangerously high level, Norway is concerned about an increase in conflicts over dwindling arable land and water resources. In addition to using a portion of their oil income to help and develop measures, Norway is also “pushing heavily for the commercial development of carbon capture and storage technology as an essential tool for reducing global CO2 emissions.”
Qatar
ReplyDeleteDeirdre Hoyle
Jesse Scott
A of May 6, 2009, The country of Qatar, on the issue of the Bali Roadmap, supports plan B and the Kyoto treaty’s efforts to combat climate change.
The Bali Roadmap is a continuation of the Kyoto treaty which was drawn up in 1997 to help bring down the emissions of carbon dioxide and slow down the rapid increase in human caused global warming and climate change. The Emir of Qatar, Nassir Abdulaziz al-Nasser, said “the Bali road map and the Climate Change Convention should remain the framework for activities to combat climate change.” If all nations would follow the lead of Qatar and the other countries that signed on to the Kyoto treaty and have agreed to the policies outlined in the Bali Roadmap, then we would be able reduce pollution and make our world a better place to live. Unfortunately, when countries like the United States who are responsible for a large portion of the world carbon emissions refuse to participate in this treaty, it makes it much more difficult. Qatar fully supports the idea of the Bali Roadmap and it’s intentions to reduce pollution and we hope that with the new US leadership led by President Barack Obama, the United States will join us in fighting for a better future for our planet.
The issue of the Bali Roadmap has been put before the Eurasian Conference, with two possible options on which member countries can vote. Plan A states that the original 1997 Kyoto Protocol, and later the 2007 Bali Roadmap on climate change should be rejected by the international community. Plan B proposes that the both treaties on climate change be accepted and implemented with enforced sanction of loss of membership in the WTO for non-compliance. Qatar strongly supports plan B and we feel that this is the best solution. If we do not get 100% compliance from the countries most responsible for causing the carbon emissions responsible for climate change then we will not be able to adequately address this issue and all countries of the world will suffer. This is a serious issue and there should be serious consequences for not participating.
GREECE
ReplyDeleteSOPHIE BOERMAN
WADE POWELL
As of May 5, 2009, the country of Greece, on the issue of Bali Road Map/Kyoto Protocol, supports the issue.
Although Greece has been unsuccessful in fulfilling its obligations to reduce carbon emissions called for in the Kyoto Protocol, the country is still generally supportive of improved environmental regulation. Greece was banned from the treaty for failing to adequately monitor emissions and for allegedly manipulating data, but has been reinstated. Greek President Karolos Paoulias is strongly in support of environmental regulation and change. When dealing with environmental issues President Papoulis, believes “There are no more excuses. There is no more ignorance.” At the same time, however, Public Works and Environment Minister Giorgos Souflias has been criticized by a wide range of groups for his failure to enact previsions of the Kyoto Protocol. Greek Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis has urged the President to separate the Public Works and Environment Ministry in order to improve the country’s capacity to comply with its obligation under the treaty. According to Karamanlis, “Greece will meet to the fullest the quantifiable obligations that is has undertaken to limit greenhouse emissions and to increase the use of renewable resources. “
It is important for Greece to resolve the Kyoto Protocol for the planet’s wellbeing. According to scientists in Greece, temperatures in the country are predicted to rise 1 to 3 degrees by 2060 if carbon dioxide levels do not decrease substantially. This would result in problems with the water table, air pollution, and dramatic increases in forest fires. The Eurasian Conference should vote to affirm the principles of the Kyoto Protocol, and strengthen existing environmental regulations. The national government in Greece has considered the consequences of their actions, and high-level officials state that they are now ready to change and take control of their environment.
North Korea
ReplyDeleteLeo Fremonti
Wade Powell
NORTH KOREA
BALI ROADMAP
As of May 6, 2009, the country of North Korea has no opinion on the issue of the Bali Roadmap.
After the 2007 climate change conference, the nations that were participating adopted a plan of action to fight climate change, called the Bali Roadmap. The goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in order to cut the risk of severe climate change. There was agreement from nearly 190 nations, North Korea not among them. However, China who is linked with North Korea, adopted this plan of action. If North Korea was forced to pick a position on the issue, they would most likely go with China and adopt the plan of action. Currently however, as with many current global issues, North Korea has expressed no opinion on the matter of the Bali Roadmap.
As climate change becomes more and more of an issue, nations of the world need to join and develop a plan of action to slow greenhouse gas emissions, reducing the effects of climate change. Although North Korea is indifferent to the current plan of action, the Bali Roadmap, neighboring countries such as China have adopted the plan. North Korea should take this issue into serious consideration on the day of the Eurasian Conference because it is so important for the well being of the planet and its environment.
UNITED STATES
ReplyDeleteEMILY RADKE
LAWLESS
As of May 6th, 2009, the United States of America, on the issue of the Bali Road Map, is opposed to the enforcement of the Bali Roadmap and the expulsion from the WTO.
Climate change is a big issue that affects everyone; everyone will need to do his or her part to help change this situation. The United States is not against attempting to change the climate problems. The Bali Roadmap, and the Kyoto Treaty before it, suggests a way for everyone to lower their greenhouse gas emissions. The US did not sign the Kyoto Treaty and will still not sign it in the near future because lowering the gas emissions would impact the economic growth. The US is experiencing economic trouble and at this moment lowering their pollution would result in even more of economic crisis. The US is more than willing to negotiate a solution before the Kyoto Treaty expires in 2012. The US is ready to do its part in combating climate change.
The international community should reject the Bali Roadmap because the way it is written now is too limiting. In other countries like the United States, enforcing the Bali Roadmap could lead to economic or other problems in that country. If that country were then unable to accept the Bali Roadmap, they would lose their membership to the WTO. Without the benefits of the WTO, the country might then fall into further economic crisis. The international community should still work towards lowering greenhouse emissions, but a different version of the Bali Roadmap should be drawn up. If representatives from most countries were present, they could create a Roadmap that would be easy to follow by everyone and not create any problems in that country by following it. The current Kyoto Treaty and Bali Roadmap should become inactive and a new, better treaty should be drawn up.
GERMANY
ReplyDeleteDEREK VANDERVIES
LAWLESS
As of May 6, 2009, Germany, on the issue of the Bali Roadmap and Kyoto Treaty, supports their acceptance
Germany cares for the environment very much. The climate change is affecting the entire world and having adverse effects on everyone. The Kyoto treaty and Bali roadmap both contain laws that reduce carbon emissions. Germany would very much like to see the world’s carbon emissions decrease. To do this the big countries must reduce their emissions, which is why Germany supports the treaties.
The climate is slowly getting worse from our careless pollution. Each and every country must do its part to try and reverse the damage we have done. The Earth is our only home. The Kyoto treaty and Bali roadmap offer ways of improving this home so that we don’t lose it. If the condition of the environment continues to decline, more species will go extinct, disrupting the balance of nature. It only takes small changes to have a great impact on the world. This is all these treaties are asking for. It makes perfect sense that if a countries won’t take small steps to improve the Earth, they should suffer consequences.
SPAIN
ReplyDeleteTUS HENRY
LAWLESS
Little could be found on information regarding the Bali Roadmap by Spain. However Spain has lagged behind in the past on the Kyoto Protocol and being the European Nation with the largest increase in CO2 emissions since 1990, Spain needed to make a commitment to the Protocol. Since 1990 the sea level rose four millimeters a year, rainfall was reduced, and storms and heat waves intensified showing that Spain is indeed affected by its CO2 emissions. Now the Multilateral Carbon Credit Fund (MCCF) plans to support Spain in fulfilling its Kyoto Protocol commitments by launching Project Carbon Fund, and the Green Carbon Fund. The Project Carbon Fund will receive a €35 million contribution from Spain, and the Green Carbon Fund, a commitment totaling €40 million from Spain.
Spain is beginning to focus more on its global impact regarding the issue of greenhouse gas emissions, and has begun to make progress now being the world leader in wind energy. However, unless the world can act together to lower its emissions (especially the United States) the efforts of many nations will be fruitless. Many countries are having trouble realizing the solemnity of this problem, seeing it as not having to be dealt with since it is not a top priority. I believe the loss of membership from the WTO is a wise plan to make nations stick to their greenhouse gas commitments. Anything that may weaken a nations economy should be used against them in order for compliance. In a world where global warming now poses a serious threat to everyone, a change must be made.
SPAIN
ReplyDeleteTUS HENRY
LAWLESS
As of April 19th 1998 the country of Spain on the issue of Bali Roadmap supports the treaty and its international acceptance.
Little could be found on information regarding the Bali Roadmap by Spain. However Spain has lagged behind in the past on the Kyoto Protocol and being the European Nation with the largest increase in CO2 emissions since 1990, Spain needed to make a commitment to the Protocol. Since 1990 the sea level rose four millimeters a year, rainfall was reduced, and storms and heat waves intensified showing that Spain is indeed affected by its CO2 emissions. Now the Multilateral Carbon Credit Fund (MCCF) plans to support Spain in fulfilling its Kyoto Protocol commitments by launching Project Carbon Fund, and the Green Carbon Fund. The Project Carbon Fund will receive a €35 million contribution from Spain, and the Green Carbon Fund, a commitment totaling €40 million from Spain.
Spain is beginning to focus more on its global impact regarding the issue of greenhouse gas emissions, and has begun to make progress now being the world leader in wind energy. However, unless the world can act together to lower its emissions (especially the United States) the efforts of many nations will be fruitless. Many countries are having trouble realizing the solemnity of this problem, seeing it as not having to be dealt with since it is not a top priority. I believe the loss of membership from the WTO is a wise plan to make nations stick to their greenhouse gas commitments. Anything that may weaken a nations economy should be used against them in order for compliance. In a world where global warming now poses a serious threat to everyone, a change must be made.
SWEDEN
ReplyDeleteRYAN HALL
LAWLESS
As of May 6, 2009, the country of Sweden, on the issue of the Bali Roadmap, supports the treaty and the loss of membership in the WTO for non-compliance.
Sweden has been a leader in improving the climate. Over the past few years Sweden has easily met and surpassed the goals set by the Kyoto Protocol. Sweden has implemented many methods to encourage the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions including placing a tax on carbon and offering positive incentives for citizens to make eco friendly decisions. As a country, Sweden hopes to become oil free by 2030 and completely carbon neutral by 2050. As a leader in environmental issues Sweden is proud to be a strong example for the EU and the world on lowering harmful emissions.
Protecting our climate is a very important issue. Countries that do not actively work towards the goals set by the Kyoto Protocol and Bali Roadmap should be held responsible for their failures. It has become apparent that serious sanctions are necessary to get certain countries to work towards climate goals. Sweden will support exclusion from the WTO for countries that continually fail to work for climate change. Our planet is being destroyed by our greenhouse gas emissions, and it is necessary that governments step up and support the Bali Roadmap and work to reach the goals set by it.
THAILAND
ReplyDeleteGUS SMITH
MRS. LAWLESS
Thailand/ Bali Roadmap
As of May 4, 2009, the country of Thailand, on the issue of the Bali Roadmap, is for the guidance of the Bali Roadmap which promotes the reduction of greenhouse emissions.
Thailand, like many other countries, is struggling to maintain a constant, balanced economy. Thailand has signed with the UNFCCC (UN Framework Convention on Climate Change) and is making strides to reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases. Their export economy is based mainly on agriculture produced in the rural areas of northern Thailand. However, emissions of greenhouse gases produced mainly in urban areas are increasing, and the climate of Thailand’s farming season is becoming drier, hotter, and longer. Crops that had been growing with supreme abundance in Thailand for centuries are, for the first time in history, ceasing to produce fertile crops. The future of Thailand’s economy, like so many others, rests in the world’s ability to lower greenhouse gases.
The countries of the 2009 Eurasian Conference should vote to enact the Bali Roadmap. I don’t think that there is a country that could legitimately rebut the Bali road map. Greenhouse gases are an epidemic, not a something that effects only a handful of distant countries. Every country, every culture, every individual on this planet is influenced by this problem. This isn’t a plea for countries to come and join. This is a warning to those countries that don’t fall in line, that global warming will infiltrate your country if you don’t act against it. If you follow Thailand’s lead, we can try and overcome greenhouse emissions, unified with a common purpose.
SPAIN
ReplyDeleteTONATIUH SOTO
WADE POWELL
Spain: Bali Roadmap
As of May, 6, 2009 the country of Spain, on the issue of the Bali Roadmap, supports the treaty to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Rising greenhouse gases in the earth’s atmosphere is a huge issue in world politics, and the Bali Roadmap would have countries continue cutting their greenhouse gas emissions after the Kyoto Protocol expires after 2012. Although Spain is behind in cutting its greenhouse gas emissions to the standards set by the Kyoto Protocol, we do support holding members of the UN and WTO liable for cutting their emissions after 2012. Spain is the third largest producer of wind energy in the entire world, only after the United States and Germany, 20% of our annual energy consumption comes from our wind farms.
It is Spain’s opinion that the Eurasian Conference should vote to set limits for how much CO2 a country pump into the atmosphere, and that signers of the treaty should have to invest money into improving their renewable energy technology.
Ireland
ReplyDeleteAna Cruz
Lawless
A far as Ireland and the Kyoto treaty until now their isn't really anything going on. The importance of this treaty to Ireland seems at a minor stage at this time.
So their wouldn't really be anything to fight about. In my point of view and from what I researched. As far as the treaty discussion in 2007 the European Union committed an average of annual green house gases emission reduction of 8% and Ireland negotiated an actual increase of 13% above the 1990 level. So this this mean that they increased their emission. Now in present time their has been a decrease of 1% if emissions. So they are loosing 1% of emissions. As far as Ireland it seems as if they have no significant interest in this issue of the Bali road map.
It seems like they could give more importance to other issues. Although their isn't much importance to this issue from what I understand they could discuss this issue more in dept at the conference. But at this point its not much of interest. The climate change can become an importance to Ireland in the way of their natural resources. So more reductions of these emission can cause a damage.
CHINA
ReplyDeleteJESSE KLUGE
SCOTT
As of May 9, 2009, the People's Republic of China, on the issue of the Bali Roadmap, supports reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases by industrialized nations.
For China, whether we agree to reduce our emissions of greenhouse gases or to produce the gases at the same rate will have have a large effect on the world. We are one of the most active manufacturing nations, and also have the biggest population of any country. Our nation is one of the most polluted in the world because of this. For the sake of our people, if we reduce our emissions the pollution will eventually disappate, and our country will once again be able to see the sky. We have decided to agree to this treaty in order to hinder climate change and to pave the way for future negotiations regarding climate change.
The rest of the world should join us and follow our example. Greenhouse gases bring a depletion of the ozone layer, which leads to increased worldwide temperature and flooding. The other countries would benefit because in lowering the amount of carbon dioxide being emitted, there would be healthier air, slower detorioration of buildings, and more productive farmland, among other improvements. We urge others to sign the treaty for the sake of their own country as well as the planet's, and for a global point of unification. If we all decide to stand together against the emission of greenhouse gases, we may decide to create a worldwide alliance in order to overcome even more difficult challenges ahead.
CHINA
ReplyDeleteZOEY REEVES
SCOTT
As of May 10, 2009, the People’s Republic of China, on the issue of the Bali Roadmap, supports the treaty to reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases.
As China, the issue of climate change and greenhouse gas emissions is of great importance. Having the largest population in the world and being a main manufacturing country, we are also the most polluted. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions it would help to get rid of the pollution that is in our air that is affecting our people. We would like to have a healthy, clean nation to benefit not only our people, but the rest of the world as well. China has agreed to this treaty to reduce climate change and greenhouse gas emission so that our future can be bright and clear of pollution.
We believe that other countries should agree to this treaty because it would be a great benefit the entire world. Be reducing greenhouse gas emissions, we would stop destroying the ozone layer which creates global warming. We would also have much healthier air for people, animals and plants alike. This cannot be accomplished by one country; it requires unity and cooperation around the globe to improve our planet. We encourage other countries to join together to reduce greenhouse gas and to stop climate change for not just their country, but for the entire planet.
SAUDI ARABIA
ReplyDeleteTRAVIS BRADLEY
PATRICK MCMULLEN
As of May 11, 2009, the country of Saudi Arabia, on the issue of the Bali Roadmap, supports that it should be accepted and implemented with enforced sanction of loss of membership in the WTO for non-compliance.
About one third of Saudi Arabia is below an altitude of 500 feet, so much of it would be affected by a rising sea level. Also as a result of pollution, Saudi Arabia’s deserts are dryer than they were before, and are still getting worse. It should be easy for Saudi Arabia to meet any expectations, as we produce a relatively low amount of CO2. We advise that, in order to meet the criteria in the Bali Roadmap, countries should focus their reduction of pollutants on coal burning for electricity, and meat consumption. It is wiser to focus on these topics, especially coal burning, instead of gasoline-using cars, because there are more alternative ways to get that energy. No matter how many Americans drive Hybrid cars, developing countries like China will soon be driving millions of cars, and there isn’t the slightest possibility that they will all drive new, expensive, efficient cars.
Saudi Arabia actually has a very mixed and complicated view of the Bali Roadmap. However if all countries in the world support it, then all of the world’s pollution will be vastly reduced. Countries that either have some low-altitude land like Saudi Arabia, or are island nations are threatened by rising sea level of losing either some or all of their land. These countries and for their sake other countries should support the Bali Roadmap. Coal is a major producer of pollutants, and there are many other ways to get energy from alternative energy sources that are more eco-friendly, and because so many cows are bred for consumption, they have become the world’s second largest source of pollution because they produce so much methane gas. Fewer cows should be bred so less methane is produced, but they should be treated better so the meat is of a higher quality so people won’t be outraged. These are much better topics to focus on than oil because they have such simpler solutions that are more accessible. We can all make the Earth a better, cleaner place.