Alyn Smith Calls For Commitment To Kyoto

The European Parliament has today adopted a resolution setting out its position on the forthcoming conference (COP17) and its demands for the EU position. Alyn welcomed the clear message calling for the EU to commit to continuing the Kyoto Protocol, a key issue for the forthcoming summit.

Speaking from Strasbourg, Alyn said:

"I am proud that the European Parliament has sent a clear message ahead of the world's biggest and most important climate change conference. Durban offers an opportunity for the EU to add weight, and for progress to be made, however the EU needs to finally commit to continuing with the Kyoto Protocol beyond 2012.

"I recognise that resolving the current flaws and loopholes under the Kyoto Protocol is essential for it to be as effective as it can be- namely, how emission from forestry and land use are accounted, as well as the issue of hot air or surplus emissions permits need to be addressed, and I was pleased to see this was recognised today by the Parliament.

"The current greenhouse gas target of a 20% reduction by 2020 is clearly at odds with the EU's pledge to limit the increase in global temperatures to below 2 degrees. It is good to see that the European Parliament has highlighted this and the need for the EU to step up its target. It is about time the Commission and member state governments jumped on the bandwagon."