Environ News

Addressing the media on the final day of the Bangkok climate change session, UNFCCC Executive Secretary Yvo de Boer spoke of a constructive two weeks of talks, and said that all the ingredients for a successful outcome in Copenhagen are on the table. Mr. de Boer stressed the urgency of raising ambitions and bridging differences, adding that now is the time to step back from self interest and let common interest prevail. Source: UNFCCC

The Philippine government says at least 246 people have died in flooding caused after Tropical Storm Ketsana struck on Saturday. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) blamed the massive flooding caused by the unprecedented storm on environmental degradation and climate change. “The DENR takes note of these tragic consequences of environmental degradation and climate change which is the cause of all these problems,” DENR Secretary Jose Atienza Jr. said, adding: “Nature is getting back at us in a very violent manner because of our neglect, abuse, and inability to protect the environment.” Picture source: Reuters

As world leaders meet in New York and Pittsburgh, a new report from the U.N. says the pace of climate change is surpassing predictions. Source: Reuters

French President Nicolas Sarkozy on Thursday unveiled a new carbon tax to help combat global warming. The new levy on oil, gas and coal consumption by households and businesses will come into effect next year, making France the biggest economy yet to impose a straight-up carbon tax. Source: AFP