We're facing our greatest challenge

Copenhagen: Many ex-statesmen just go into retirement, but not former President of Costa Rica, Jose Maria Figueres Olsen, who founded Global Observatory (GO) www.global-observatory.org to "translate in real time and into every-day language the complicated, intricate negotiation process in which governments are involved in Cop-enhagen. We hope to empower and motivate people to support their governments in taking the correct and necessary steps to reach an agreement."

He believes time is running out and that politicians must reach an agreement.

"Climate change is by far the greatest challenge humanity has ever faced. The challenge now is to continue economic development and prosperity for all, while decoupling from carbon emissions that must be reduced. This has never been done before, and it implies a complete re-invention of the way we live, the way we work, and how we interact as society."

Conclusive

"Climate change is here. From the retrenching glaciers in the Himalayas to the shrinking Arctic, its effects are being felt around the world. The scientific verdict is conclusive. Over 4,000 scientists contributed to the latest IPCC report, detailing grave changes in the global climate system caused by our carbon emissions. The math is clear: 387ppm of carbon in the atmosphere today, plus 2.5 ppm per year give us over 600 ppm by 2100 — causing 5'C changes in temperatures. We need to bend that trend!"

GO created a wide network of global leaders and NGOs, which Olsen claims "have led the way in broadening understanding on what's at stake. The global business community is waiting on the sidelines for governments to enact regulatory frameworks that send markets clear signals to begin the shift towards a low carbon economy. The 110 heads of state coming to COP-15 this week can lead us to a greener and growing economy, strong job creation, a healthier environment, and a better world! As a former President who passed a carbon tax in Costa Rica in 1995, I encourage them to act!"