Kyoto ProtocolThe Kyoto Protocol is an amendment to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC). The protocol's major feature is that it has mandatory targets on greenhouse-gas emissions for the world's leading economies which have accepted it. The goal is to lower all 6 greenhouse gases (GHG): - Carbon dioxide - Methane - Nitrous oxide - Sulphur hexafluoride - Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) - Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) The Kyoto Protocol has been ratified by more than 160 countries across the globe, covering over 60% of countries in terms of GHG emissions. Notable countries that haven’t ratified the protocol include the USA and Australia. Governments are split into two categories Annex 1 Countries : Are those who have accepted GHG emission reduction obligations and must submit annual GHG inventories. Notable annex 1 Countries include UK, Germany and France. Non annex 1 Countries : These are developing countries that have no GHG emission reduction obligations but may participate in the Clean Development Mechanism. Notable Non annex 1 countries include China and India China & India both ratified the protocol both in 2002. As developing countries they are not expected to reduce emissions under the Kyoto Protocol. China is the world’s second biggest emitter of GHG and is expected to take over the USA by late 2007. Between 1990 & 2004, India’s total GHG emissions rose by 55% while China’s rose by 47%. Under the Protocol, by 2008 – 2012, Annex 1 countries have to reduce their GHG emissions by a collective average of 5% below 1990 levels. The EU has made its own internal agreement to meet its 8% reduction target by distributing different rates to its member states. Examples of individual EU country targets are:
|
SWITCH ONLINE | OUR CUSTOMER CENTRE | OUR WIND FARMS | OUR ENVIRONMENT | OUR COMMUNITY | MEDIA CENTRE |
