** UPDATE: Inability of nations to cooperatively meet the scale of climate challenge with equal ambition signals urgent need for innovative leadership and solutions, says Conservation International at COP 18. (Read the full
press release for more information)
The U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change climate talks (UNFCCC COP 18) in Doha, Qatar, are in full swing.
While the negotiations move at a snail's pace, the
evidence is mounting that serious climate change perils face our planet. Several recent reports show that greenhouse gas emissions have reached a record high, polar ice caps and glaciers are melting at rapid pace, and global temperatures are rising faster than predicted.
Building on a solid foundation of climate science, field work and policy engagement, CI is working with governments to define an ambitious global climate agreement, emphasizing the role that natural ecosystems can play in dramatically cutting emissions and preserving the adaptive potential of our biosphere.
In Doha, national delegations are joined by indigenous groups, NGOs, the private sector and other decision-makers. Business-related events in Doha have included "Mobilizing Private-Sector Finance for REDD+: Innovative Partnerships for Scaling up Investment."