Be realistic, Ban Ki-moon tells COP17

United Nations Secretary-general Ban Ki-moon.

United Nations Secretary-general Ban Ki-moon.

Published Dec 7, 2011

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Durban - Be realistic about what will emerge from Cop17 in Durban, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told delegates on Tuesday.

Speaking at the opening of the conference’s high-level ministerial segment, he said the ultimate goal of a binding climate change agreement might not be possible.

“We must be realistic about expectations for a breakthrough, or even for our success, in Durban... A comprehensive and binding agreement may be beyond our reach for now,” he said.

The reasons for this were known.

“Grave economic troubles in many countries... abiding political differences... conflicting priorities and strategies for responding to climate change.”

However, this should not stop negotiators from moving forward on key issues.

Ban urged negotiators to keep up the momentum built up last year at Cancun.

Reports from various international agencies warned that the world’s climate was reaching the point of no return.

“We must pull back from the abyss. You are the people to pull us back from the edge,” he said.

On the future of the Kyoto Protocol, Ban said it was the closest thing the world had to a global binding agreement.

“While Kyoto alone will not solve today’s climate problem, it is a foundation to build on, with important institutions. It provides the framework that markets sorely need.”

Carbon pricing and trading depended on a rules-based system.

“I therefore urge you: carefully consider the proposals that have been advanced here.... do not create a vacuum,” he said. - Sapa

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