The United Mine Workers and leaders of the coal, electric and railroad industries have reached a rare consensus to oppose ratification of the proposed global climate treaty. The union and a group of industry executives agreed Monday to lobby against the proposed treaty. Both sides said the treaty could have a disastrous effect on workers.
Many scientists think the gases are causing global warming.
Carbon dioxide comes mainly from burning coal and oil, and experts say using less energy and alternative fuels are the keys to reducing emissions. The Clinton administration has proposed cutting back carbon dioxide emissions to 1990 levels within the 2008-2012 time frame. Roberts and Richard Lawson, president of the National Mining Association, said Clinton's proposal would devastate the U.S. coal industry. Since more than half of the electricity used in this country is generated by coal, they executives said the treaty would cost jobs throughout the economy and raise the price of consumer goods. Copyright 1997 Associated Press .