U.S. Joins Six-Nation Climate Pact

The U.S. joined Australia, China, India, Japan, and South Korea in signing the Asia-Pacific Partnership for Clean Development and Climate in July 2005, with the goal of “taking action on climate change in a broad, pro-growth context,” according to a White House fact sheet. Together, the signatory countries represent about half of the world’s population and about half of its greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to global climate change. While few specifics, such as targets, timelines, or funding sources, have been made public, more details should emerge following a November 2005 meeting in Australia.