On February 16th the Kyoto Protocol passed its two-year anniversary since coming into effect in 2005. On February 16th, 2005 the Kyoto Protocol became binding law after Russia ratified it, becoming the fifty-fifth nation bound under the Protocol. Up to now, one hundred and sixty-nine nations are parties to the treaty, with the regrettable exception of the United States and Australia. The Kyoto Protocol has come a long away since its creation in 1997, but, in the midst of the second anniversary, there are dark clouds overcastting compliance with the global 2008-2012 targets. Most of members bound to reduce emissions during 2008-2012 have already passed their targets beyond a point of no return; some members have even attempted to forfeit efforts to meet their duties. However, there have been some accomplishments; the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), one of the Kyoto flexible mechanisms for countries to meet their targets through reductions abroad, has recorded remarkable steps. Between 2008 and 2012 more than 1 billion tons of CO2 will be reduced through clean development in more than 500 projects worldwide, and the number keeps increasing. This, unfortunately, will not be enough to meet the Kyoto targets—unless developed countries take meaningful steps to reduce emissions at home.
On its second birthday, I wish Kyoto a stronger compliance mechanism for its post-2012 life, stronger additionality criteria for its mechanisms, political will for reform from its friends, and fruitful reconciliation with currently absent large greenhouse gases emitters. Join me wishing Kyoto a happy birthday; leave your comments with birthday wishes on this blog!
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