Was anything achieved at Copenhagen?
Yes and no. The build-up to December's UN climate change conference in Copenhagen saw a huge amount of hope and an equal amount of media coverage with speculation about what figures would be agreed and who would sign what. For the travel industry, there was concern over the possible introduction of carbon taxes as well as debate about the potential effects of climate change on the viability of tourist destinations around the world.

The summit started slowly but was studded with drama, including the arrival of US President Barack Obama, who seemed set to herald a leap forward in the negotiations. But, as the delegates packed their bags and paid their hotel bills, no overall agreement was reached. However, there was a so-called "accord" made, outlining a broad set of commitments, which even Obama said was "not enough".

Prevarication among the nations has also led to growing doubt over the ability of the UN to deliver global deals, bringing into question the process by which such important decisions are made and whether the UN is the right body to deliver them.

page 1 of 4 next >