Why does Kyoto protocol expire in 2013 Will every country be able to emit as much CO2 as it wants after expiration What is the point if it expires so early?

They could but they won't, countries will have restructured lifestyles and industries to meet or be close to meeting the CO2 levels set. The early expiry will herald a new protocol where the next set of measures and a timescale for implementation will be agreed -----------------------------------------------------

The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen (30 November 2009 - 11 December 2009) will determine the strategy going forward after Kyoto. The goal is to enter into a binding global climate agreement that will apply to the period after 2012.

(http://www.cop15.dk/en)