Representatives of major environmental NGOs in Romania hope that officials gathered in Copenhagen will sign a strong, clear agreement that will show the world there is a sustainable direction to follow. For the first day of the summit, Romanian activists have no high expectations, official statements being expected starting with December 16.

"Except for some political statements, I don't think much will happen today in Copenhagen. This week is dedicated to the negotiators and their abilities to take decisions. Their work is very important now, and the outcome of the summit mostly depends on them. I hope that the end will bring a firm agreement. I am positive. It's mandatory to have an agreement as any delay will cost us." said Lavinia Andrei, President of Terra Millennium III

Even if an agreement will be signed at the end of the summit, other NGO representatives fear that it will be a superficial one that will not effectively counter climate change's effects. "I think an agreement will be signed, but it will be one of principle. Most countries have pledged to cut emissions, but there are too many discrepant numbers. A factual, binding agreement that states what we have to do starting with 2010 should actually be signed. But it will take some more time before we get there." declared Luminita Tanas, Program Director, WWF Romania

"Today they're calling the roll, to see if everyone, and USA especially, is present. Even if USA have a representative, I do not think they will sign an agreement. Their priority is the health system, which is private and refrains over 40 million people to benefit from it, not climate change, thinks Liana Buzea of EcoAssist

Although the most important environmental summit began today, political and media scenes in our country are not really interested in the subject. "I am bothered because here, in Romania, considering its global and local importance, COP15 has barely been mentioned. I wish I saw this topic more often on TV and in newspapers, but there were other issues that grabbed attention. The two presidential candidates didn't pass the climate change exam either. Throughout their campaign, they didn't open this issue at all. I hope this will change in the upcoming period. We have sent questions, but, unfortunately, we haven't received any answer so far" said Costel Popa, Director of Save the Danube and the Delta Association.

More declarations and the chances of a strong climate agreement as seen through the eyes of representatives of the Romanian Parliament are available on Green Report. (content in Romanian)