At the COP28 climate conference in Dubai, a draft resolution promoting a "transition" away from fossil fuels has been proposed. Negotiations resulted in a revised draft, with countries like Germany failing to secure a global phase-out of coal, oil, and gas. The new text encourages a move away from fossil fuels in energy systems in a fair and just manner, noting the importance of transitional energies for energy security.
Despite resistance from oil states like Saudi Arabia, demands for complete fossil fuel phase-out persist. For instance, Stephen Cornelius from WWF views the new text as a significant improvement but insists on a full-scale phase-out of fossil fuels to ensure a livable planet.
Ongoing discussions at COP28 have been marked by resistance from oil states, calls for continued mitigation discussions, and concerns over the economic impacts of new targets. European countries, such as the EU, advocate for the phasing out of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has opposed a new mitigation work program, fearing it could impose undue burdens on their economy.
The UAE, the host country for COP28, has taken a different stance, backing the "fossil fuels vow" and investing in renewable energy projects. However, they have faced criticism over their involvement in forest commodification and the displacement of indigenous populations.
In conclusion, while the COP28 agreement advocates for a transition away from fossil fuels, disagreements remain, especially among oil states, over the pace and terms of this transition.
