EU hails Russia's Kyoto decision
The Russian government has voted to ratify the Kyoto Protocol on climate change, a move that has been applauded by the EU and environmental groups. Russia's cabinet approved the international treaty on 30 September, and if the State Duma, or parliament, supports that decision - which appears likely - the Kyoto Protocol will come into legal force across the world within 90 days. In order for the agreement to be legally binding, it must be ratified by countries that together are responsible for at least 55 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions at 1990 levels. With the United States, the world's biggest greenhouse gas producer, apparently unwilling to support the initiative, the treaty's legally binding status has been dependent on Russian ratification. The news was warmly welcomed by Commission President Romano Prodi, who said: 'Once the Duma confirms the ratification it means that the Kyoto Protocol will enter into force. This is a huge success for the international fight against climate change. The Commission looks forward to working with Russia on carrying out the Protocol.' Mr Prodi and the Commission have repeatedly pushed the climate change issue in their dealings with Russia over the past months. Indeed, a week before the Russian cabinet's decision, the Commission President had a long telephone conversation with Russia's Premier Vladimir Putin about Kyoto. 'Global climate change is a fight that our generation has to win for the sake of the future of our children and this planet. The Kyoto Protocol is the best available weapon in the hands of the international community. Today President Putin has sent a strong signal of his commitment and sense of responsibility,' added Mr Prodi. Under the treaty, signatories are required to keep the emissions of six particular greenhouse gases below 1990 levels from the period 2008 to 2012. However, some environmental groups believe that, more importantly, the Kremlin's decision will pave the way for international negotiations on more stringent emissions targets after 2012. Bryony Worthington, climate campaigner for Friends of the Earth, adds: 'It will also turn up the heat on the US and Australia who have refused to join international efforts to avoid a global catastrophe. Time is running out. We need urgent international action now.'
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