Bali: Nations agree on steps to revive Climate Treaty

By THOMAS FULLER and ANDREW C. REVKIN - Published: December 16, 2007

NUSA DUA, Indonesia — Delegates from nearly 190 countries wrapped up two weeks of intense and at times emotional talks here on Saturday with a two-year timetable for reviving an ailing, aging climate treaty.

The deal came after the United States, facing sharp verbal attacks in a final open-door negotiating session, reversed its opposition to a last-minute amendment by India...

The differences in philosophy at the meeting were striking and fundamental. European Union negotiators said they favored specific government-imposed caps on emissions and wanted industrial countries to lead the way.

The United States favored relying on "aspirational" goals, research to advance nonpolluting energy technologies and a mix of measures, including mandatory steps like efficiency standards for vehicles and appliances — but all set by individual nations, not mandated by a global pact.

The agreement notes the need for "urgency" in addressing climate change and recognizes that "deep cuts in global emissions will be required."

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