What the papers say about Durban

The worldwide conference on climate change, COP17, began this week. Here is what the broadsheets think and what to expect from the talks.

The Guardian and The Daily Telegraph both offer a simple guide to the climate change talks taking place in South Africa over the next two weeks.

The newspapers look at what is being discussed, why it is important and what the outcome of the talks is expected to be.

Unfortunately, both The Guardian and The Telegraph are not expecting the talks to be successful based on the build-up. Both titles agree that there is little possibility that an agreement will be made for a policy to replace the Kyoto Protocol when it runs out in 2012. This means the world will be left without any binding policies for reducing emissions.

However, The Guardian does say it is likely that agreements will be made over how money pledged to poorer countries is spent and a scheme will be agreed to protect tropical forests.

The Telegraph points out that Angelina Jolie, Sir Richard Branson and Bono will be attending whilst The Guardian note that diplomats from developing countries could occupy the talks if they are not happy with the progress made.

The Telegraph concludes by explaining that the outcome of the talks will have a major impact on the future of the planet, so this conference is important to all of us.

To follow what happens at COP17, read Blue & Green Tomorrow‘s coverage. Four practical steps you can take yourself would be to speak to your financial advisers or let us find one for you through our online form, switch to renewable energy, make your Christmas as ethical as possible, and if you are going to Durban, look at one of our sustainable travel partners.