Saving the World - Live from Durban! Episode 9: Of Words and Titles

Over the past two days, Ministers from 194 countries have delivered their Nation’s statements in the High Level Segment of the COP17.

All of them have commented on the beauty of South Africa and complimented the South African Government for its excellent leadership; recognised the importance of combating climate change and pointed out that they are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

Most of countries agreed that the UNFCCC should adhere to the principles of common but differentiated responsibility (a euphemism for saying rich countries should pay to help poor countries reduce emissions) and demanded an inclusive and fair outcome of the COP17, with many supporting a second round of the Kyoto Protocol.

But listening to some of them, I have come to realise that words are often empty and that one gets the best indication of a country’s commitment to reducing global warming from the Minister’s official title...

H.E. Mr Chris Huhne
Secretary of State of Energy and Climate Change – United Kingdom

H.E. Mr. Norbert Röttgen
Minister of Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety – Germany

H.E. Mr Andrew Yatilman
Office of Environment and Emergency Management – Micronesia

H.E. Ms Maria Mutagamba
Minister of Environment and Water - Uganda

H.E. Mr. Greg Combet
Minister of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency – Australia

H.E. Mr Ali I. Al-Naimi
Minister of Petroleum - Saudi Arabia

Now you tell me: Who do you believe when they say they are committed to cutting carbon?