Pacific nations say cut emissions 45% by 2020

Seven of the lowest-lying pacific nations have called for global emissions cuts of 45% by 2020 to save their homelands from rising sea levels caused by global warming.

The call was made on August 5 in the lead-up to the Pacific Island Forum, held in Cairns. The nations urged Australia to do more to cut greenhouse gas emissions.

AAP said Prime Minister Kevin Rudd told forum delegates: "Pacific island nations are among the least responsible for the causes of climate change, but they will bear the brunt of its impact the most."

He claimed Australia would represent the interests of the Pacific Island nations at the Copenhagen conference and said Australia would help build sea-walls and with the relocation of climate refugees.

However, he refused to commit to raising Australia's emissions cut target, which is likely to remain at a tiny 5% by 2020. Australia is the biggest greenhouse gas polluter per person in the world.

He also avoided answering questions as to whether Australia would commit to taking in displaced climate refugees from the Pacific.

From GLW issue 806