Climate Summit Stirs Controversy: No Clear Exit Strategy for Fossil Fuels
The recent draft of the final declaration for the World Climate Summit in Dubai does not include a mandatory phase-out of coal, oil, and gas, as advocated by numerous countries.
Unveiled this morning, the text from the summit presidency only urges nations to transition away from fossil fuels in their energy systems. Over a hundred states had previously endorsed the phaseout.
Significant milestones outlined in the draft include tripling the capacity of renewable energy sources by 2030 and doubling energy efficiency improvement rates during this period. The G20 countries have already pledged to achieve these objectives.
Furious Reaction to Draft Text
Monday saw a wave of outrage following the publication of an initial draft. The omission of the fossil fuel phaseout, which over 100 countries support, sparked discontent. Germany, the EU, threatened island states, and various other countries labeled the text inadequate or even a death sentence.
Damage Control and Persistent Dialogue
In an attempt to mitigate the fallout, the summit presidency justified the controversy, stating that their intention was to stimulate discussions - an objective they believe has been accomplished. Ultimately, however, accountability lies with the government delegations, who must unanimously agree on the proclamation.
Intense Diplomatic Deliberations
Late into the Dubai conference, the host announced that President Sultan al-Jaber and his team had held numerous late-night meetings with delegates from various countries and groups. Their objective was to ensure that everyone's views were heard and taken into consideration, ensuring all positions were fairly addressed.
COP28's Ambitious Objective
Sultan al-Jaber, the COP28 conference President and President of the state oil company, emphasized his commitment to reaching an ambitious conclusion and preserving the internationally agreed 1.5-degree global warming limit during the summit.
The Dubai Summit, marking the 8th anniversary of the Paris climate agreement, has faced accusations of failing to deliver a historic resolution. Critics argue it fails to phase out fossil fuels and Germany's lagging behind in meeting its climate goals.
Ugandan climate activist Vanessa Nakate, in a Guardian guest article, lamented the situation in Dubai, as the world runs out of time. She encouraged progressive states to take action.
References:
- International community criticized for COP28 draft lacking clear phase-out of fossil fuels
- Draft thrust of COP29 rules unclear at glance
- Azerbaijan President defends fossil fuels, criticizes Western countries from double standards
- COP28 faces controversy despite renewed pledges
- UK oil and gas development ruled unlawful over climate crisis
