As the UN climate talks get underway, an alternative climate conference has opened in Copenhagen. Klimaforum-09 is organized by a broad coalition of Danish and international environmental movements as well as civil organizations.

Niles Fastrup, Head of Media at Klimaforum-09, said, "Klimaforum is basically an open summit. We believe in order to solve the climate crisis, it's not enough for ordinary politicians to get together. You and I and all the people from around the world have to get together as well and that's what Kilmaforum is all about. We're creating an open space where people from all over the world can meet, discuss climate change and take action on the issues."

The Klimaforum-09 program features over 150 open debates as well as 60 exhibitions, music, film, art and guest speakers. Its opening ceremony on Monday included a musical concert played on instruments of ice. It will run for the duration of the official conference, ending December 18.