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China agrees to curb greenhouse gas emissions

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An agreement between the U.S. and China is being heralded as a breakthrough in global climate change efforts. While attending the annual Asian Pacific Economic Conference in Beijing this week, China’s president set a target to reduce fossil fuel emissions by 2030.  This is the first time Beijing has ever agreed to reduce emissions.

The U.S. part of the deal is a pledge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 26 to 28 percent of 2000 levels. That is an increase from the current pledge to reduce emissions by 17 percent of 2005 levels.  China and the U.S. are the world’s largest greenhouse gas producers.

The deal is seen as a breakthrough in that it could eliminate a roadblock in global climate trade negotiations. Up to this point, China, India, Brazil and South America have refused to any reduction of carbon emissions in their countries.

Republican leadership in Congress denounce the deal saying it will increase the cost of energy for Americans. The agreement does not require Congressional approval but Republicans say they will work to restrain the administration’s effort.

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