After a year of record temperatures, deadly floods, and devastating wildfires, the annual UN summit to address the climate crisis, COP28, is set to begin in Dubai, hosted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). World leaders and delegates from around the globe will gather to discuss and strategize ways to avert the impending climate catastrophe. However, the choice of the UAE as the host nation and the appointment of Sultan al Jabar, UAE’s Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and CEO of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, as the presiding official has sparked controversy.
While many politicians and environmental groups expressed outrage over the appointment of a fossil fuel executive, some world leaders, including US climate envoy John Kerry, have welcomed the decision. Despite the differing opinions, discussions at COP28 will focus on essential issues such as climate financing for vulnerable countries, strengthening emissions cuts pledges, and the phasing out of fossil fuels.
One key issue that will be addressed at the summit is the establishment and administration of a loss and damage fund for low-income countries severely affected by extreme weather events. In the past, wealthy nations have been reluctant to support such a fund due to concerns over financial implications. However, at COP27 last year, delegates made significant progress by agreeing to establish the fund. The finer details, including eligibility criteria, funding sources, and administration, will be discussed during COP28. While a transitional committee has made recommendations, some civil society groups express concerns over the lack of binding commitments from developed countries.
Another crucial topic of discussion will be the evaluation of each country’s progress in reducing emissions and meeting the goals set forth in the Paris Agreement. The first-ever global stocktake will analyze the efforts made by governments to curb emissions and adapt to climate change. The results of this stocktake, published in a UN report, indicate that countries are falling short of meeting their commitments, and urgent action is required to secure a livable planet.
Additionally, the phasing out of fossil fuels will be a contentious issue at COP28. While coal, oil, and gas combustion contribute significantly to climate change, governments have been hesitant to commit to a complete phase-out. Petrostates, including the UAE, continue to resist such measures, citing economic concerns. However, environmental activists believe that the latest recommendations from the UN report will push for an emphasis on renewable energy and the gradual elimination of unabated fossil fuel use.
Despite the challenges and differing opinions, COP28 holds great significance in the fight against the climate crisis. Activists stress the importance of holding governments accountable and pushing for ambitious and transformative actions. The summit provides a platform for countries of all sizes to address heavyweight issues and demand change, showcasing the power of global collaboration in combating climate change.
As COP28 approaches, the eyes of the world are on Dubai, where world leaders and delegates have the opportunity to shape a more sustainable future and mitigate the severe consequences of climate change. With the urgency of the situation becoming increasingly apparent, the success of COP28 and the commitments made during the summit will determine our collective ability to tackle the ongoing climate crisis.
