Joan Brown,osf
COP Working Groups finish draft document for ministers to begin work with Monday
While the goal of a draft document was met by noon today, important pieces need much work next week. Reduction temperatures have not been decided. Poor and affected countries would like a limit of 1.5 degrees centigrade, while others will consider 2 degrees. It is important to note that early in the week the head of the COP stated that the plans submitted by the nearly 200 countries around the world would not even meet a target of 2 degrees, so realistically much work is needed to meet preferred 1.5 degrees.
Another major element left for negotiations is finance,
which everyone realized would be an issue coming into COP. At Copenhagen in 2009 a commitment of $100 Billion for adaptation and mitigation for poor, affected countries was agreed upon. There is a large gap in actual commitments. Africa has proposed a compromise minimum of $32 billion and is waiting for a response. The US is leaning toward language of a collective commitment of money but requiring new country contributors to take part in the funding, even in small amounts.
In addition, the NGO’s continue to press for inclusion of strong human rights and food sovereignty in the body of the final document.
Panel presentation
Sr. Odile, my Franciscan International partner who is inside the COP this week, (she is graciously giving me her pass for next week) had this reflection from the unveiling of the draft document this morning.
As countries delivered statements about what they wanted to see in the final document the most vibrant statement was delivered by Malaysia. They questioned the desire of some countries to change the nature of the UNFCCC Convention where the principle of equity is essential. Malaysia asked that the situation of the growing gap between rich and poor be considered in the context of climate change because currently 16% of the countries hold 55% of the world’s wealth.
The 1992 convention addressing climate change created a preamble with a clear direction agreed upon. Is the world serious about this agreement and basic principles? Malaysia also noted that the civil society should be present in the negotiation room, surely the developed world can provide an overflow room.
Odile said, “Malaysia was clear and dared to say things that many countries think.” These comments received resounding applause.
Presentation with Franciscan’s International and friends
I spent the day with the International Franciscans. I was humbled and graced to be part with Br. Michael A. Perry, OFM, Minister General and Servant of the Franciscan men. He spoke about Laudato Si. I shared, through many pictures and a French translator, the practical stories of actions for efficiency, solar and local food, in addition to public policy advocacy for climate change in my Rochester, Minnesota Community and in the work with people of New Mexico through Interfaith Power and Light.
Everyone was most interested in action on the ground including, solar arrays, food production, education and meetings with political leaders among other action. The collaborative effort between people of all religious traditions offered inspiration, as did the solidarity
Prayer Vigil Image for COP in Missionary of Mary Sisters Chapel.
work with the economically poor and native brothers and sisters in New Mexico.
For me the day affirmed the power of a vision that brings together people of many religious traditions to work for Our Common Home in addressing climate change. I believe these examples of faith in action will be spread in many countries.
Importance of Prayer and meditation
Thankfully, I had time in the late afternoon for prayer and meditation for the work of the COP. The sisters have been praying in vigils for the proceedings and it was wonderful to join them.