After Kyoto what?

Plans are afoot to replace the Kyoto Protocol, due to expire in 2012:

Leaders from 20 countries, crucially including China and the US, signed a resolution that paves the way for a replacement to the Kyoto protocol, set to expire in 2012.

Although the resolution is non-binding, it is being seen as a "tipping point," that finally sees the US and China take full responsibility for helping to combat global warming.

The forum's closing statement said man-made climate change was now "beyond doubt" - bringing it in line with the stance held in the scientific world.

The forum, organised by the Global Legislators Organisation for a Balanced Environment (Globe), brought together rich countries from the G8 as well as developing countries such as Brazil and Mexico.

Today they agreed that all countries, rich and poor, should aim towards new targets for capping carbon dioxide emissions. Previously it has only been the most developed countries that have worked towards reductions.

The forum also agreed to work towards replacing the Kyoto protocol by 2009.

Also take note:

Thirty-five industrial nations who endorsed the Kyoto pact agreed to cut their global-warming gases by 5pc on average below 1990 levels by 2012. Almost all countries are missing the target.

h/t: Jack