As I write this blog, it is almost certain that the summit will end in leaders re-iterating the known facts about global warming rather than agreeing upon a concrete plan and timetable.The problem begins with the differences over the binding cuts that needs to be taken by the developed and the developing countries and the issue of technology and fund transfer required over a phased out period to help the developing countries in adapting to the change. Historical responsibility is the stance taken by the BASIC countries and much of the developing world while the developed world refuses to commit to binding cuts.
If the issue is well known and acknowledged, what prevents the Leaders from chalking out a plan?. Firstly every country's vested interest in a highly biased and tilted world creates a situation where you can't have winners all around the table. There will have to be some who have to give more than what they can get, ultimately the problem is universal and not limited to a single country. Secondly when Leaders like Obama and Kevin Rudd face immense pressure back home and a lack of acknowldgment in their homelands leave alone transfer of tech and funds, it becomes virtually impossible to chalk out an agreement. These leaders promise a lot but fail to deliver due to the reasons cited. Adding to the mix is the bunch of people who have their faith in the fundamentals of growth suggesting that growth irons out all problems and disparities and climate change/global warming is nothing more than a hoax.
Though I understand the practical problems each country faces today in making a deal it is also important to realize that we are running out of time. In an effort to optimize the losses of today we appear to be taking a big gamble on tomorrow and the United Nations has once again been pushed to a mere spectator.
