U.S. cuts emissions better than Europe: White House

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – The White House said on Wednesday the United States had done better at reducing carbon emissions than Europe, where U.S.
President George W. Bush’s stance on global warming has been sharply criticized.

The Bush administration has taken steps that “demonstrate real seriousness, not simply giving the speeches, but walking the walk,” White House spokesman Tony Snow said, adding that “We are doing a better job of reducing emissions” than Europe.

“So the idea that … we don’t understand the arguments, or we’re not contemplating or taking seriously the arguments about carbon caps, of course we are,” he said.

While many environmentalists have urged mandatory caps on carbon dioxide emissions, as imposed in Europe, Bush opposes the idea and advocates the development of new technologies to reduce dependence on oil.

Reuters