An IPL Nun Blogs the Bali Climate Change Convention

Bali Time: Thursday, December 13

It is a remarkable experience to be here and to literally feel the energy from around the world as we come together to address our response to the defining issue of our time: climate change. Here we see efforts to address our concerns and to strengthen our bonds across international borders as we face the needs of our common EARTH HOME.

Yesterday (Wednesday) was the opening of the high-level negotiations. This means it is the time when the heads of governments arrive and speak on the issue, and work towards decisions that will move us toward a more sustainable EARTH community. Each speaker yesterday from around the world spoke of the absolute necessity of ALL countries cooperating in the decision making process. Many spoke of being motivated by our responsibility to care for creation, the most vulnerable and future generations. It was clear, without mentioning the United States directly, that each speaker was indeed saying to the United States: you need to be a cooperative party in the negotiations.

So far, I can say that the United States has taken positions far from the key essential elements of the framework: transfer of technology to developing countries to assist in adapting to climate change; and adaptation -- that is the allocation of funds for developing countries. Climate Action Network, an excellent international educational, lobbying organization says: "the US said technology needs an assessment to 'figure out what the situation is in developing countries and the US rejects 'sufficient, predictable and additional funding' to assist developing countries as they adapt to climate change. Also the US has said that this Conference is "not a sustainable development convention."

Senator John Kerry was here this week and speaks of the movement on the local levels in the US to adopt the Kyoto Protocol and also the support that is emerging from the private sector to urge the US government to set definite emission reduction target numbers (also opposed by the US). Today, Al Gore will speak.

With all the disappointment in our US government, I have great hope when I meet folks from around the world who appreciate what the "locals"are doing in the US. with their efforts and ours...from organizations like IPL, we will continue our work for a healthier, more sustainable EARTH community. This is where my hope rests..for the moment.

I am grateful to represent Interfaith Power and Light and ultimately all of you...together we are making a difference.

Sincerely,

Sister Pat Nagle, IHM

Sister Pat Nagle, IHM serves as Co-Chair of Oregon Interfaith Power and Light. She is attending the UN FRamework Convention on Climate Change in Bali, Indonesia as a member of the Delegation from the World Council of Churches.