Uncertainty Clouds Climate Deal as Nations Prepare to Sign Accord

More than 150 nations are expected to sign the Paris climate change accord that aims for net zero carbon emissions by 2100. Delays are expected from countries that must pursue legislative approval. Scientific research overwhelmingly supports that the world is warming due to human activities. The United States is expected to balk at final approval: The US Supreme Court blocked regulation of emissions from coal-fired plants, and a leading US presidential candidate expresses doubt that climate change is manmade. “The accord cannot come into effect until 55 nations accounting for 55 per cent of global emissions have formally joined it,” reports Pilita Clark for Financial Times. “The US and China plan to join this year but together they only account for around 40 per cent of emissions. The EU, which produces about 10 per cent of emissions, is not expected to join until later.” Investors are increasingly wary of fossil fuels, and analysts warn that markets won’t be stable until governments offer consistent policies on which fuels will be subsidized. – YaleGlobal