Age: THE United Nations’ chief climate negotiator has applauded the Rudd Government’s decision to ratify the Kyoto Protocol, saying it would make a big difference to Australia’s standing at the global climate talks in Bali, which start on Monday. But he warned that Australia would face penalties if it failed to meet its Kyoto target to limit greenhouse gas emissions. "Australia is stepping into a legally binding international instrument that would oblige Australia to meet its …