Monday, December 12, 2005
Climate Change: Obstruct globally
As Americans endure the embarrassment of the U.S. performance at a global warming conference, Seattle residents can hold their heads a little higher. At least, Mayor Greg Nickels made a good showing at a U.N. conference in Montreal.
The Bush administration's most notable act was a walkout on one set of critical talks. The U.S. delegation was there to obstruct, not advance international action. For a country with leadership responsibilities, that was pathetic, rude and ineffective.
The rest of the world will keep looking for ways to cooperate on solving a very real economic, environmental and safety threat to everyone. At least for now, the U.S. government will continue to look for ways to sidetrack both the current Kyoto protocols and any serious follow-up.
The partially saving grace for Americans is that, while the administration can hardly speak without spluttering on the topic, cities, counties and states are not only talking but acting responsibly.
Nickels has led efforts to reduce and offset greenhouse gas emissions caused by city operations. His challenge to other mayors has drawn a strong response across the nation as well as favorable international attention.
Washington has joined California and Oregon in cooperative efforts that include a demand for cleaner-burning car engines. Gov. Christine Gregoire and legislators need to maintain the progress. Help is not on the way from Washington, D.C.
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