Sarko: France to Go Green

Nicolas Sarkozy called for a greener France today, including higher taxes on polluters, a 50% reduction of pesticide use, and the eradication of genetically modified crops. The French president spoke at the close of a national environment summit that counted Al Gore in attendance. But the conference failed to generate consensus on the role of nuclear power in France, which produces 80% of its electricity.

Sarkozy waxed optimistic, claiming France would freeze the construction of new highways and airports, and divert the funds to investments in the nation's rail infrastructure. He also asked the EU to look into taxing imports from nations that don't abide by the Kyoto Protocol. "The aim is to tax pollution...more and tax work less," he said. (More green energy stories.)