Dalai Lama urges world to act on climate change

SYDNEY (AP) — Global warming needs to be the world's top priority. That's the view of the Dalai Lama.

At a news conference in Australia, the revered Buddhist figure and Nobel Peace Prize winner says economic interests sometimes override the issue, but politicians must focus their energy on finding a solution to climate change. He added that he's encouraged by next month's climate change summit in Copenhagen.

Meanwhile, Australian leaders are debating a bill aimed at curbing greenhouse gas emissions. The differences are so strong that several top opposition party officials resigned over their leader's support for the legislation.

Australia is one of the world's worst carbon dioxide polluters per capita because of its heavy reliance on coal. At the same time, it's considered one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change.

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DALAI LAMA headshot, Tibet spiritual leader, with waving Tibet flag, on texture with letteriing, finished graphic