Draft deal lifts flagging climate talks

A UN panel of climate scientists have put together a draft climate pact, reviving hopes that the Copenhagen talks may be able to pin down an international deal to fight global warming.

Although Friday's draft has not been unveiled officially, the text covers both an extension of the existing UN Kyoto Protocol, whose first phase ends in 2012, and a parallel track of talks which draws in those countries outside Kyoto, notably the United States.

The text offers a range for global cuts in greenhouse gas emissions, mainly from burning fossil fuels, of at least 50 percent by 2050 from 1990 levels. Developed countries are expected to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 75 to 95 percent.

UN scientists are also urging developed countries to come up with concrete plans concerning the amount of money used to fight climate change.

A woman signs a placard asking for a deal in the Copenhagen climate  meeting, in central Sydney December 11, 2009. REUTERS/Daniel Munoz