A spate of scientific reports released during the two-week meeting provided compelling new evidence that the Earth's climate is warming. They also predicted dire consequences – from rising sea levels to more severe droughts, floods and storms – unless action is taken to reduce climate-changing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions.

It is hoped a wider treaty would be adopted in 2015 that applies to all countries. That agreement is expected to take effect in 2020 and would replace the Kyoto Protocol.