Russia ratifies Kyoto Protocol.

• Author: Prugh, Thomas
• Position: ENVIRONMENTAL Intelligence - Brief Article

The Russian parliament in late October ratified the Kyoto Protocol, the 1997 global treaty to curb greenhouse gas emissions. President Vladimir Putin is expected to sign the measure, although when is not clear. The treaty will enter into force 90 days after Putin signs and the Russian government formally notifies the United Nations of ratification.

The Kyoto treaty required the endorsement of at least 55 industrial nations which together accounted for at least 55 percent of global green-house gas emissions in 1990. The United States helped negotiate the treaty, but under President George W. Bush has refused to take any further action, leaving Russian ratification as proponents' last hope. The Russian action brings the ratification total to 127 nations.

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Russia's decision may bring it several benefits, including European Union (EU) assurances of visa-free travel for Russians within the EU and support for...