Copenhagen Could be a Turning Point

This December a summit in Copenhagen, involving environment ministers from 192 nations, will consider how to tackle climate change.

It is not an exaggeration to say their decisions will have a profound effect on the human race.

The impact of climate change isn’t just something affecting far-flung countries on the other side of the globe.

The unusual weather patterns that we’ve witnessed in recent years should be a wake-up call for all of us.

Scientists are already predicting the situation in Britain could get worse.

Summer rainwater could drop by a quarter, winter rains could increase by almost a third and flooding from heavier rainstorms is likely to become more commonplace.

So it’s essential that this summit reaches the right conclusions for the long-term future of our civilisation.

At the end of June the Labour Government published “The Road to Copenhagen”. Labour’s ministers will be pressing for a worldwide agreement to stop the increase in emissions of greenhouse gases in the next decade and to start reducing them.

But it’s imperative that all nations sign up to secure a global deal, with support being given to the poorest countries to enable them to also play their part.

Of course Derby is well placed to secure an economic bonus from taking action to address climate change.

Our High-tech industries could be at the forefront of developing carbon capture technology, low-carbon and renewable energy production and environmentally friendly consumer goods too.

And the depressed construction industry could also benefit from a spending bonanza through a massive investment in the insulation of residential and commercial premises making them more energy efficient.

I would therefore urge everyone to join Labour’s campaign to stand up for the future of our children by calling on governments around the world to act now!

People can pledge their support at http://www.labour.org.uk/copenhagen_pledge