A divide is emerging over whether the G-20 will back a more “differentiated” approach, where developed nations carry an extra burden, or “shared” emissions responsibilities, which would require developing nations to make bigger cuts.
France is pressing for tougher pledges on climate change from the Group of 20 nations ahead of the Paris climate talks starting at the end of this month, officials familiar with the discussions said.
The section on climate has emerged as the foremost sticking point in negotiations over the final wording of the G-20 communique from the summit in Turkey, said the officials representing more than one country. They spoke on condition of anonymity because the talks are ongoing.
A divide is emerging over whether the G-20 will back a more “differentiated” approach, where developed nations carry an extra burden, or “shared” emissions responsibilities, which would require developing nations to make bigger cuts. France, as host of the climate talks, is said to be seeking a more ambitious declaration from the G-20.
“We all want a success in Paris,” German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Sunday, acknowledging the impasse. “But in order to also make that clear, we will still have to do work on the communique during the night.”
BRICS Statement
A reference to differentiation was removed from an early draft of the communique, though was cited in a separate statement from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, the so-called BRICS developing economies.
“Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time,” a recent draft of the communique stated. “We recognize that 2015 is a critical year that requires effective, strong and collective action on climate change and its effects.”
The BRICS nations called for a greater focus on emissions pledges to be “differentiated” based upon national circumstances, suggesting they favor industrialized nations doing more to limit emissions than developing ones.
“The Paris agreement should be fair, balanced, durable and comprehensive, reflecting the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, in light of different national circumstances,” the BRICS said.