The United Nations climate conference, COP28, commenced in Dubai on Thursday, with a collective call for nations to accelerate efforts against global warming and phase out fossil fuels. Hosted by the UAE, the two-week-long summit is considered crucial, given the escalating global temperatures and the pressing need for decisive action.
Over 97,000 attendees, including Britain’s King Charles III, world leaders, activists, and lobbyists, are expected to participate in what is touted as the largest climate gathering to date.
The conference comes at a pivotal juncture, as the world faces the likelihood of the hottest year in human history, with emissions still on the rise. The central goal remains limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, as agreed in Paris in 2015.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, emphasizing the significance of the conference, advocates for a complete “phaseout” of fossil fuels, echoing the sentiments of many nations and scientists. The world is currently off-course to achieve the targeted temperature limits, necessitating swifter and more profound emissions cuts.
The spotlight will be on assessing the world’s progress in curbing global warming, with a focus on the need for more ambitious actions. UN climate chief Simon Stiell expressed concerns about the current pace, stating, “Right now, we’re taking baby steps where we should be taking great leaps and great strides to get us to where we need to be.”
Approximately 140 heads of state and government are expected to articulate their ambitions on Friday and Saturday. Discussions will also revolve around the formal approval of a “loss and damage” fund, aimed at compensating climate-vulnerable nations.
The UAE, seen as a bridge between developed and developing nations, faces criticism for hosting the conference, particularly in light of Sultan Al Jaber, head of UAE oil giant ADNOC, leading the talks. Al Jaber has faced accusations of pursuing fossil fuel deals while presiding over COP28, which he vehemently denies.
Geopolitical tensions, trust-building, and the absence of leaders like Joe Biden and Xi Jinping could pose challenges during the negotiations.
