WASHINGTON, Mar 16 (OneWorld.net) - The president of the Maldives announced Sunday that his nation will become the first carbon-neutral country in the world, within 10 years.
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The announcement was made via video link with viewers at the premiere of the forthcoming climate film, "The Age of Stupid," which will be released in Britain later this week. Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed said: "What we need to do is nothing short of de-carbonizing the entire world economy," adding that the process will likely be difficult and somewhat painful, but it is achievable and necessary. "If man can walk on the moon, we can unite to conquer our own carbon enemy. We [the Maldives] are willing to play our part."
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Nasheed called on the leaders of wealthier nations to take decisive action at the Copenhagen climate summit in December. Climate journalist Mark Lynas said: "This is more than just an amazing announcement. This is potentially a game-changer for the entire political negotiations on climate change, worldwide."
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Nasheed did not say how his country would reconcile its drive to become carbon-neutral with its economic reliance on tourism, which often demands long-haul airline travel, a major contributor of greenhouse gas emissions.
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"The Age of Stupid" is aiming to reach 250 million viewers worldwide with its message clarifying the short time frame in which humans must act to avoid the most catastrophic consequences of climate change. Concerned viewers are being directed to the action hub at OneClimate.net, a member of the OneWorld family of Web sites, to find out how they can get involved in the follow-up action campaign entitled "Not Stupid."
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