Ramesh suggests “aggressive damage control” to deal with Japan’s stance

CANCUN - Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh on Sunday suggested “aggressive damage control” to deal with the Japanese decision of not signing up to commitments under the Kyoto Protocol after 2012.

Interacting with mediapersons on his meeting with Mexico’s Foreign Minister and President of the ongoing climate meeting Patricia Espinosa Cantellano, Ramesh said: “We did express that there has to be some aggressive damage control on Japan’s statement.”

“Our concern was fully shared,” he added.

Earlier, Japan had said that it will not be subject to any more legal obligation for carbon emissions under the Kyoto Protocol after the treaty’s first commitment period ends in 2012.

Ramesh said that Japan’s main complaint was against China and the US, which are the two largest carbon emitters.

“Their concern is why should the Americans get away scot free. They are not worried about the India,” said Ramesh.

Under the 1997 treaty, industrialised nations are obligated to reduce their carbon emissions up to 5 per cent from 1990 levels.

Japan, however, is unhappy with the absence of the US as well as emerging economies India and China from the treaty.

It says that the Kyoto Protocol only covers 27 per cent of carbon emissions and leaves out two of the largest greenhouse gas emitters - the US and China. (ANI)