Week of meetings could spell fate of climate work

‘SLIPPING THROUGH OUR FINGERS’ For months, the process to create a framework on heat-trapping gas emissions has been deadlocked. The clock is ticking

AFP , PARIS

But even the modest down payment called for by the UNFCCC of US$10 billion has caused wealthy countries — coping with stalled economies and concerned about the money will be managed — to balk.

Much of the focus will be on the top two emitters of carbon dioxide, the US and China, whose leaders are expected to stake out their positions at the special UN summit.

“The crucial question is this,” Kerry said. “Can we forge a partnership that can act boldly enough to prevent a climate catastrophe?”