US climate policy is 'no alternative to Kyoto', Wallström tells President Bush
Responding to US President George Bush's new climate change initiative, Environment Commissioner Margot Wallström has said that it is 'no alternative to the Kyoto Protocol' and that the environment should be improved through technological progress. Ms Wallström said that whilst she welcomes a US climate policy, and hopes that it will lead to increased awareness in the USA of the urgent need to cut greenhouse gases, she would like to see the USA return to the Kyoto process. 'The US, as the world's largest emitter of greenhouse gases, has a great responsibility in contributing to global efforts to combat climate change. But the plan is no alternative to the Kyoto Protocol to which the EU remains fully committed. The Protocol is the only effective international framework for combating global warming and we urge the United States to return to the Kyoto process' said the Commissioner. Ms Wallström claimed that President Bush's proposals will not lead to a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, but will allow a significant increase, raising the question of whether the USA will be able to meet its commitments under the United Nations' Framework convention on climate change. 'Action to fight climate change is vital to achieve sustainable development. President Bush believes that taking action under the Kyoto Protocol would harm the US economy. I think that improving the environment through technological progress can actually enhance our competitiveness and fuel economic growth. This is what sustainable development is about: protecting our eco-system while ensuring economic prosperity,' said Ms Wallström.