I believe we’ve made some important strides forward as we move towards Copenhagen, I don’t think I have to emphasise that climate change is one of the defining challenges of our time. The science is clear and conclusive and the impacts can no longer be ignored. President Obama said.
The declaration is a significant step, with all big countries rich and poor agreeing there is a scientific limit on the amount we should warm the climate. But there is still a huge way to go, as developing nations like India will not sign up to any 2050 targets unless rich nations show more determination and offer more cash, BBC environment analyst Roger Harrabin.
G8 had not done enough and should also set 2020 targets. While the G8’s Wednesday agreement was welcome, its leaders also needed to establish a strong and ambitious mid-term target for emissions cuts, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon.