阅读理解
Many scientists think that
the earth is getting warmer and warmer. If the change continues, the natural world
and human society will face danger. Scientists believe human activity is responsible
for the climate change. We produce too many greenhouse gases. They keep heat in
the air and make the earth warm.
Many of the world's governments
agree. And they want to solve the problem. So from December 7 to 18, 2009, they
held a conference in Copenhagen, Denmark to talk about global warming and climate
change.
Representatives(代表) from 192 countries and regions went to
the meeting. Although they have not reached an agreement, the Copenhagen Accord(《哥本哈根协议》) was an important beginning to save the earth. It was made by a small
group of countries including China, the US, India, Brazil and South Africa. Some
other countries at the conference also showed support.
What are the key points of
the Copenhagen Accord? The accord limits global temperature increases to 20C by
2050 compared to pre-1850. Scientists think it could help the world to avoid serious
climate change.
The accord also says that
developed countries must promise to cut greenhouse gas emissions(排放) to the UN by January 31, 2010. The accord
asks developed countries to give money to help developing countries.
Many countries and organizations
are disappointed that the conference didn't reach a legal document(法律约定). And they think the accord is not clear
enough about its goals.
African leaders are worried
that the goal of a 20C global temperature increase isn't good enough, because it
will mean a much higher increase in temperature across Africa. This could cause
big problems like food and water shortages across the continent.
Still, UN Secretary General
Ban Ki-Moon believes the conference was an "improvement".
