Putin signs Kyoto Protocol, completing Russia's ratification

[Judi Lynn]

Putin signs Kyoto Protocol, completing Russia's ratification
04:14 AM EST Nov 05

MOSCOW (AP) - President Vladimir Putin has signed a bill confirming Russia's ratification of the Kyoto Protocol, clearing the way for the global climate pact to take force early next year, the Kremlin said Friday.

Both houses of parliament last month ratified the protocol, which aims to stem global warming by reducing greenhouse-gas emissions. Putin signed the bill on Thursday, the Kremlin said. Without Russia's support, the pact - which has been rejected by the United States and Australia - could not have come into effect.

It needed endorsement by 55 industrialized countries accounting for at least 55 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions in 1990.

After years of hesitation, Putin pledged in May to speed up approval in return for the European Union's support of Russia's bid to join the World Trade Organization. The 1997 pact would take effect 90 days after Russia notified the United Nations of its ratification.
(snip/...)

http://www.cbc.ca/cp/world/041105/w110510.html

[Piperay]

1. WOW

that is TERRIFIC! Huh, guess that leaves chimpy's America out there hanging all alone. :nopity:

[Delphinus]

2. America is going to find

herself hanging out there all alone more often than not. Just one more way * can look at things and say that everyone is against him. More cause for war against the world.

[Tashi]

3. Australia

hasn't signed it, I wish Bush would sign it,for environmental reasons ofcourse and to see how quickly our little rat of a Prime Minister scuttles after him, pen in hand.

[AlinPA]

4. Don't hold your breath. Republicans would never sign it.