Firstly, because of the Kyoto protocol and its dictates, the EU has built an emissions market involving banks and enterprises in long term investments estimated at €107billion.

Secondly, because the South African summit could end in more than a stalemate: it could sanction the death of Kyoto, seeing that Canada, Japan and Russia have already said they will not join its second phase in 2013.

Thirdly, because the brave European commitment to cut emissions by 20 per cent by 2020 could sideline it in a fight which is meaningful only if shared by all the planet. But which also requires billions in public spending which do not go well with the regime of fiscal discipline [practised in] these modern times.

There are problems lying ahead for the strategy as southern Europe burns in the annual forest fire season, though, principally a lack of resources: “[Last year] Bulgaria made an approach, but there was nothing available,” said Hans Das, who heads the EU office for civil protection and disaster response. “Eventually, Russia provided aircraft. We felt it was unfortunate that Europe was not able to come to the aid of that country.”

The EU’s track record on reducing emissions has been creditable to date, even if it has used accounting tricks to achieve part of its targets and some EU countries – especially Italy and Spain – are dragging their feet. Hence its opportunity – and obligation – to set an example now both in the negotiations and in the commitments that need to be made. Climate and the environment are one of the few areas in which Europeans can see eye to eye and make their voice heard – and in which, consequently, they are duty-bound to take action. Especially seeing as public opinion has long since accepted the sacrifices, as well as the changes in their way of life, that are required to this end – and even the cost, chiefly taxes, that will entail. G.P.A.