Bonn talks to set out foundations for 2015 deal

This week begins another round of climate talks in Bonn, Germany; though it is not generating the headlines in the press, the meeting is one of the biannual meetings of the UNFCCC and is hoped to pave the way for a new global deal in 2015, known as the ‘Durban Platform’.

The main focus of the talks seems to be centred on EU emissions cuts, with the EU looking to toughen its targets from 20 to 30 percent below 1990 levels by 2020. Fears surrounding economic conditions have made this process particularly difficult, and talk of removing some types of biofuels from the equation will make the 30 per cent target even tougher to meet, if not impossible.

Talks will also concern ‘Climate Aid’, which provides finance to developing countries as a means to mitigating and adapting to climate change. It is due to expire at the end of the year and no decision has yet been made as to its future.

The AOSIS group of small island states have been particularly vociferous in championing these two policies having joined a coalition with other less developed countries and the EU in last years Durban conference.

The EU has seemingly looked contemplative rather than authoritative in many regards however. They have not yet committed to the 30 per cent move largely due to just one country, Poland, opposing the change. They are also thought to be wavering on just how they can provide the $100 billion per year in finance as part of their long term target for poor country finance.

In comparison to other regions, the EU is still the leader in terms of commitments to emissions reductions. Some other countries are pressing for binding agreements, but many are satisfied with their own voluntary agreements, which are often left unenforced and have proved ineffective. China and the US also have changes of leadership due in the next year, which will make agreements difficult until the next term.