Tag Archives: carbon emissions

John Kerry Says US Must Lead In Climate Change Efforts

Senator John Kerry told delegates at the Bali conference on climate change that he wants America to do much more toward having the world gain control of deadly carbon emissions. “The United States,” he said, “is going to be at the table, the United States is going to lead, and the United States is going to embrace significant change in order to lead with climate change.” Kerry, who c0-chairs a U>S. Senate committee on climate change argues the United States must seek a goal of at least 60%-70% reduction in carbon emissions by 2050. The Bali conference is seeking much swifter implementation of climate change by insisting that developed nations must reduce carbon emissions by 30% within the coming fifteen years.

Ralph Nader insisted in the elections of 2000 and 2004 there was no real difference between Republicans and Democrats. Senator Kerry’s commitment to climate change is obviously vastly different from the Bush position. President Bush, like so many conservatives, insists that controlling carbon emissions will “damage our economy.” European nations already are doing much more than the United States in using renewable sources such as wind and sea power without any significant impact on their economies. Of course, as humans we may have to accept some slight reductions in wealth in order to save this planet. Which comes first– human survival or being able to purchase an SUV?