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Energy and climate were among the concerns discussed at the recent North American Leaders Summit held in Guadalajara, Mexico. U.S. President Barack Obama, Mexico's President Felipe Calderon and Canada's Prime Minister Stephen Harper agreed that their governments would build on efforts to invest in renewable energy and environmentally friendly or "green" jobs.
The North American leaders pledged to support a goal of reducing global greenhouse gas emissions in 2050 by at least 50 percent from the amount emitted in 1990 or a more recent year, with a more restrictive goal of 80 percent reductions for developed countries. The declaration is designed to support a successful outcome at the United Nations-sponsored conference on climate change in Copenhagen, Denmark in December.
President Obama commended Mexico "for its leadership in curbing greenhouse gas emissions, and President Caleron for his innovative proposals to help developing countries build clean, sustainable economies."
The North American Leaders Summit builds on the work of the North American Energy Working Group, established in 2001 by the energy secretaries and minister of the United States, Mexico and Canada. The 3 nations have committed to produce a North American Carbon Atlas that will result in uniform mapping methodology and data sharing in the area of large sources of carbon emissions and potential storage sites in North America.
Carbon emissions from human activity are believed to be a major factor in global warming. The United States, Canada, and Mexico will also explore ways to collaborate on research and development and demonstration projects related to the capture and storage of carbon emissions.
The flaring and venting of natural gas associated with oil production wastes a valuable energy resource and contributes to global warming. Important progress has been made to reduce gas flaring but more must be done worldwide. The U.S., Canada and Mexico will work to promote best practices in reducing flaring throughout North America.
The 3 North American countries agree to continue to collaborate toward a harmonized framework that ensures energy efficiency standards in each country that are consistent with national energy efficiency and environmental objectives. Cooperation in research and development and demonstration of clean energy technologies will improve the competitiveness of all 3 countries by enhancing the reliability of the electric systems, diversifying the energy matrix, and strengthening energy security.
The United States, Canada and Mexico are committed to developing clean energy for North America and the world.
