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U.N. conference to discuss implementation of Kyoto Protocol Wednesday, October 23, 2002 NEW DELHI, India — Government leaders and environmental scientists
from around the world will meet in the Indian capital Wednesday to
discuss implementation of a landmark treaty that aims to reduce greenhouse
gas emissions and curb global warming. The convention will be attended by more than 3,000 delegates from the United Nations' 185 member states. "There will be a strong focus on the concerns of developing countries," a United Nations statement quoted the convention's executive secretary, Joke Waller-Hunter, as saying. The statement said recent climate disasters around the world — from droughts in India to floods throughout Europe — are potent reminders of some of the expected consequences of global warming. Environmental experts warn rising temperatures will increase the frequency and severity of heat waves and tropical cyclones, while possible shifts in climate patterns could lead to changes in rainfall patterns, leading to more intense floods and droughts. The convention will also focus on financing for projects to help developing countries adopt climate-friendly technologies for reducing carbon dioxide and other heat-trapping gases. So far, 95 countries, including India and the European Union countries, have ratified the Kyoto Protocol, which was negotiated in 1997 to stem pollution and global warming. The United States has refused to ratify the agreement, claiming it will be too costly for industries. Copyright 2002, Associated Press |