The United Nations climate conference commenced in Dubai, urging nations to expedite reductions in planet-warming emissions and phase out fossil fuels. The event takes place in the oil-rich United Arab Emirates, generating skepticism about its suitability as a host for the talks. Spanning two weeks in a vast exhibition venue, the negotiations come at a critical juncture, with global emissions still on the rise and the UN anticipating this year to be the hottest in human history.
With over 97,000 attendees, including world leaders, Britain’s King Charles III, activists, and lobbyists, converging in the opulent Gulf city, COP28 is touted as the largest-ever climate gathering. This conference, hosted by the UAE, is considered pivotal, echoing the significance of the Paris 2015 agreement. The aim of limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius, faces challenges as the world is veering off-track, necessitating accelerated climate action from the nearly 200 nations participating.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres advocates for a complete “phaseout” of fossil fuels, a proposal facing opposition from influential nations. The focus of COP28 includes a stocktake of global progress in curbing global warming, necessitating commitments to hasten climate action. A notable development is the anticipated approval of a “loss and damage” fund to compensate climate-vulnerable countries, signifying a crucial response to the impacts of climate change.
However, the choice of the UAE as the host has drawn criticism, particularly due to the dual role of Sultan Al Jaber, appointed to lead the talks and head of the UAE state oil giant ADNOC. The hosting decision has raised questions about conflicts of interest and the role of fossil fuel companies at the conference.
Despite challenges, the UAE aspires to bridge the gap between historically responsible developed nations and those less culpable but severely impacted. Sultan Al Jaber, under scrutiny, refutes allegations of pursuing new fossil fuel deals under the guise of COP presidency. COP28 aims to secure agreements on tripling renewable energy and doubling annual energy efficiency improvements by 2030.
Navigating geopolitical tensions and fostering trust among nations will be significant hurdles during COP28. The conference’s opening included a minute’s silence for civilians affected by the Gaza conflict, highlighting the broader global context. Israel’s President Isaac Herzog is set to engage in talks on the release of hostages held by Hamas. While US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping are absent, a joint announcement by the two largest polluters ahead of COP28 has sparked optimism for collaborative climate efforts.
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