The participation of 120 heads of state and government leaders was not enough. The COP15 summit held in Copenhagen in December resulted in the modest Copenhagen Accord instead of the ambitious, legally binding global climate deal anticipated by many.
Much disappointment and frustration was felt by NGO people, government leaders and civil cervants alike as they packed their suitcases and went home.
However, efforts continue at all levels towards securing a more sustainable development. One of the lessons learned from COP15 appears to be that environmental issues, sustainable development and the climate challenge are too important to be left to the politicians. Another important point made in this issue of DialogWeb by Kai Arne Armann, the leader of the Ideas Bank, is that non-formal adult education may so far have failed in its own sector both with regard to the means used and the results achieved.
In an article titled ”Efter COP15” (After COP15), some key persons in Nordic NGOs and other organisations present their views of the forthcoming challenges and opportunities connected to the work of enhancing environmental awareness and competence in different sectors of the society.
Meanwhile, we are happy to note that despite the meagre result achieved in Copenhagen, politicians continue striving towards more ambitious international agreements. Because green growth means more security, more money an more jobs. And because many politicians do care about the environment, too. Good luck to the hosts of COP16 in Cancún, Mexico!