While environment and development groups are generally dissatisfied with the outcome of the G8 summit this week, the pledge to launch climate negotiations in Bali in December 2007 and complete them in 2009 has been welcomed by Christian Aid.

The USA is preparing to scupper a global deal on slashing greenhouse gas emissions at the G8 summit in Germany, infuriating thousands of protestors who have taken to the streets to put pressure on the world’s rich nations.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu has called for urgent action against the threat of global warming. He was speaking in Tromsø, the largest Nordic city north of the Arctic Circle. African and Pacific leaders have backed his plea.

Ahead of a report on 4 June 2007 with Practical Action, Oxfam and Tearfund - illustrating why a 2°C limit to global warming is essential for poorest - Christian Aid is urging industrialised nations to take proper responsibility.