Over the last decade people have become convinced that global warming is a serious threat. The Kyoto Protocol is a good initiative towards reducing global emissions. The protocol was originally presented in 1997, and today 191 nations have signed the protocol.
Countries are currently trying to negotiate an extension of the Kyoto agreement, however, this is proving to be difficult. With so many countries with different economies, cultures and ways of life, it is difficult to reach a solution that is accepted by everyone. Even Canada, who has committed itself to the protocol, is now questioning whether or not they are willing to accept an extension with today’s terms. As written in The Globe and Mail, the Harper government is on the fence not only due to the US’s unwillingness to commit itself to the protocol, but also due to the “differing nature of the commitments between rich and emerging economies.” (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/rejecting-kyoto-extension-threatens-climate-talks-developing-nations/article1825499/)
Though countries disagree on many terms of the protocol, the underlying issue appears to be the lack of commitment shown by the USA, India and China, who are responsible for most of the emissions today. This problem is also reflected in the Copenhagen talks of 2009, which ended up failing due to this very reason. If there is to be any hope of reaching a global emissions reduction agreement, countries much put pressure on USA, India and China – who export products to countries all over the world. If not, the current reduction talks going on in Cancun will surely not lead to any substantial agreement.