Time is running out to stop global warming

Although it was a chilly Beijing evening, press and public crowded around the 16th century Yongdingmen gate just south of Tianmanmen Square.

Our main message is to call on China to play a strong leadership role at the UN meeting in Copenhagen in December.

“We urge President Hu Jintao to personally attend the Copenhagen climate meeting," Greenpeace China Climate and Energy campaigner Li Yan told media at the press event. 

"As the largest global greenhouse emitter, China can and must take a leadership role in tackling global warming,” she added.

The glowing projection, which spread across the giant gate, read: "Time is Running Out to Stop Global Warming."

This three-minute video showing both the devastating effects of climate change -- extreme weather and hunger; the causes of climate change -- coal power stations, deforestation and vehicle emissions; and hope for a rescue plan -- clean sources of renewable energy such as wind and solar, followed the briefing.

As the film ended, a group of migrant workers from Henan province, still wearing their hard construction hats, were attracted by the bright lights.

"What film are you showing?" one asked. "Is there anyone famous in it?"

 "It's called Global Warming," we replied. "And it stars you and your family and everyone you know."