Copenhagen summit

There are 190- odd nations represented at the climate talks that started this week, but arguably only two that matter: the “G2” of the US and China. Between them, they account for more than 40 per cent of global carbon emissions, so each has the chance to set an example others will follow. They are also the nations watching each other the closest. Both have offered to curb emissions by 2020. The US has proposed a 17 per cent cut from its 2005 levels, and on Monday signalled the seriousness of its intent by announcing plans to regulate emissions without waiting for legislation from Congress. China last month set out a plan to cut its emissions per unit of economic output by 40-45 per cent compared with 2005. However, many gathered in Copenhagen believe neither commitment goes far enough. Barack Obama, US president, and Wen Jiabao, China's premier, will attend as the summit closes at the end of next week, when they have a chance to strike a deal face to face, though the likelihood of success hangs in the balance.