Today, the Federal Member for Grayndler Anthony Albanese MP was pleased to second a Private Members Bill in Federal Parliament designed to ratify the Kyoto Protocol on Climate Change.

Moved by the Shadow Minister for Sustainability & the Environment Kelvin Thomson MP, the Kyoto Protocol Ratification Bill 2003 will give legal effect to Australia’s Kyoto target and ensure Australian industry can take advantage of emerging new markets when the treaty comes into international force.

Over 100 countries have now ratified the treaty and ratification by the Russian Federation expected later this year will ensure that the Protocol will come into international force.

With ratification imminent, The Howard Government risks being left behind in global efforts to combat climate change and threatens Australia’s long term interests in future negotiations on climate change.

Labor will act to avert the damage to Australia’s environment and the economy through the Howard Government’s stubborn refusal to ratify the Protocol.

It is vital for the future of our children that Australia ratifies the Kyoto Protocol and works to reduce Greenhouse gas emissions.

Ratifying this Protocol is a very important step in ensuring that we reverse some of the damage that has occurred to our environment over the years.