Ahead of the Copenhagen Conference, UN Chief Ban Ki-moon asked developed countries to pledge USD 10 billion at the key meet to jumpstart the process to combat climate change.

"In the short-term we look to developed world to provide roughly USD 10 billion in fast-track funding annually over the next three years to jump start low emissions growth in developing countries, limit deforestation, and finance immediate adaptation measure," Ban said here.

He said the target is to substantially scale up the amount to USD 100 billion annually by 2020.

Ban also demanded the setting up of a "transparent and equitable governance structure" to manage and effectively utilise the resources. "It must give all countries a voice."

The initial plan was that around 192 countries that will meet in the Danish capital next month would hammer out a climate treaty to succeed the Kyoto Protocol since the first commitment period under this treaty ends in 2012.

Now, the bar has been lowered and governments are expected to reach a political agreement on four essential elements, which will be worked into a treaty in six months following the talks.

The UN Chief contended that pushing back the date for signing a legally binding treaty in 2010 did not mean that Copenhagen should be declared a failure.

"Reading the latest news reports you might think that Copenhagen is destined to be a disappointment. That is wrong. To the contrary I believe we can and will reach a deal in Copenhagen that sets a stage for binding treaty as soon as possible in 2010," Ban said.