The upcoming U.N. summit in Copenhagen may result in a framework or partial agreement instead of a complete deal addressing climate change, the Clingendael International Energy Program predicts. The Dutch independent forum cited several hindrances to reaching a full agreement this December, including the tough economic climate and the poor follow-through of several countries on commitments made under the Kyoto Protocol.
The study focused on China's potential role and influence in Copenhagen. As discussion points for Copenhagen, researchers highlighted China's continued dependency on coal for fuel, the strengthening of international cooperation to transform China's energy security strategy, a need to urge the country to comply with global energy policies, and the channeling of funds and technology toward mitigation efforts in China.