A few exciting quiet moments in the plenary session…

In the plenary session today the agenda is to discuss suggested amendments to the Kyoto Protocol. There is both a strong wish from almost all parties to keep the protocol alive, since it is the “only legally binding document” but still there is a demand to raise the demands on developed countries. The group of 77 (Mainly Africa) and China stressed the fact that these issues need to be discussed in the plenum to make it possible to agree on amendments. Of course anyone can see the problem in discussing this in such a large group and so did Connie Hedegaard, Minister for the UN Climate Conference in Copenhagen. First there was quiet moment in the room and then she decided. “We will have an informal meeting of all parties in the corner of the room for 10 minutes”. Strange? Smart? Well we don’t know yet, after ten minutes of waiting, they all sat down again, and the meeting was closed. No decision was taken, but discussions will go on. But hopefully ready by Saturday when the same issue will be on the agenda again.

And what is the big question, minimum of 40% carbon dioxide reduction by developed countries by 2020, and more support programs, money and alternative deadlines for less developed regions. One big issue was also further development of the REDD program, efforts to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation.

And what is my reflection? There is something to learn here, do your homework, and come well prepared to meetings. Ever heard of the county Tuvalu? Now I and the rest of the world have. They came well prepared and got the world to meet in the corner to get one step closer to an agreement.

Now I’m taking off to meet Swedish Trade Council representatives at Forum and Bright Green Expo. Will just make a quick stop at the US stand, ask about when I can meet up with Obama :-) and listen in on a seminar about clean energy production and carbon capture.

I’ll be back…

Anders @ COP15

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tuvalu