Many of the same themes keep reappearing in these speeches -- a commitment to "common but differentiated responsibilities" in fighting climate change, national plans for renewable energy infrastructure, the need for money to assist developing countries grow sustainably, the millions of refugees that the world will face if sea levels rise, and more.
It is certainly exciting for me to sit here and listen to every leader speak about the urgency of the need to act on climate change. It is truly extraordinary, actually -- finally, world leaders are taking this issue seriously and are committing to legitimate action! And, it is great to hear about projects that each country has in store for the near future.
However, some leaders have taken advantage of this prominent stage to blast the United States and the capitalist system, namely Hugo Chavez of Venezuela and Evo Morales of Bolivia.
I have mixed feelings about these speeches. On the one hand, this is truly an exciting moment in history. For the first time, every country is stepping forward and expressing their concerns about this most important issue. Maybe this will help propel the process forward?
On the other hand, it seems like it is also wasting precious time. The treaties are nowhere near completion, and there are just 24 hours left in the conference. But, the rest of the day will be taken up by these speeches.
Regardless, these speeches are great to watch. Check them out here: http://www1.cop15.meta-fusion.com/kongresse/cop15/templ/live.php?id_kongressmain=1&theme=unfccc&id_kongresssession=1
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