I can hardly comment on the conclusions of the COP 16, the conference convened by the United Nations on climate change, because when I write this note has just announced an agreement signed by most of the participating countries, including all Latin American nations, with the exception of Bolivia. However, I can say that this conference has been notable mainly for the great struggle waged to reach an agreement legal collective force countries to act seriously to mitigate the effects of climate change.
The deal, at first sight to help stop deforestation, promote the transfer of low carbon technology and to establish, by 2020, a Green Fund to support developing countries. however, failed to agree on how much should be cut total global emissions, which represents a serious problem.
The conference was held in Cancun, Mexico's main tourist destination, which was criticized by many for the destruction of native vegetation during the planning and construction for 40 years. However, delegates enjoyed the beautiful weather with sunny days, which seemed great, especially Europeans whose countries are covered by snow. If they needed proof of how the world's climate is changing, only had to look at the news that they are experiencing temperatures in Scotland, Wales and England. Nobody remembers have experienced -17 ° C in Wales, it is not normal, but it's reality. The snow that covered much of Scotland began in November, which is not normal.
The world remains divided between rich and poor. While in Cancun, the energy used to maintain the temperature at an acceptable level within the hotel is used without any worry, there are 1.500 million people in the world that, to date, do not even have access to electricity . Modern life is supposedly guided by a democratic framework that forces us to think of others and go in the fight to end poverty. Similarly, progress, knowledge and technology along with the concept of universal education is the challenge and with these tools is assumed that life would much better. The sad reality is that we are far from any kind of universal utopia. carbon emissions continue to be our problem, our fault, our disease and we are far from solving our own problems, much less those of other countries.
COP 16 has been an opportunity to work together to reach an agreement that would give us hope. Undoubtedly delegates worked day and night and gave the best of them, but without the support of their presidents or prime ministers were limited in what they could accomplish. is true that the climate change issue is hated, feared and controversial, but also something that can not be ignored. If presidents and other leaders are not participating, it is interesting to note that others are deciding what to do, is precisely the mayors and heads of government who are now part of the activist group.
is a logical step, especially since more than 50% of the population lives in cities today. world urbanization undoubtedly contributes to high carbon emissions. Consider China and its recent development and openness to technology, its transformation has been and is remarkable especially in the construction of new cities where there were huge fields. Then cities are coming to the conclusion that they must act to secure its future. must not forget that 600 million people live in urban areas with increased risk of sea level. Without a sustainable future, what will happen to New York? Or London or Acapulco? Or thousands of other cities located on the shores of their countries?
Many mayors are taking action but what counts is the level of commitment. Planting flowers and grass, build more houses in areas not suitable, abuse of systems drinking water, felling trees, selling more cars, causing traffic chaos marches and resurfacing projects are not the answer. need action as the city of Amsterdam: intelligent building construction, promote the use of electric vehicles for public transport, to introduce solar street lighting, forcing people to recycle their waste and have compost. Cities need to test innovative projects, consult the people, to consider the feasibility of new ideas and work for the good of everyone, not just for the elite.
Part of the problem of climate change is that neither see, nor feel, nor understand it if you want. 's not like a car accident with your car just in a second. No, climate change is slow, invisible and unpredictable ... is urgent to understand that without action to mitigate climate change impacts our future will be equally unpredictable. What's good for COP 16 delegates reached an agreement, but do not know how effective it is. is more important than ever to take charge and act green. The task is in our hands.
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