COP28 draft criticized as inadequate proposal

A contentious draft proposal at COP28 in Dubai has sparked criticism from the US, the EU, and climate-vulnerable nations as it fails to address clear commitments to phase out fossil fuels.

The problem
The draft, released after 10 days of intense negotiations, aims for net zero by 2050 but avoids terms like “phase-out” or “phase-down,” making reductions in fossil fuel production an option for countries, especially the oil-producing nations (OPEC).

Heated debates sparked among delegates at the UN climate conference. US Special Climate Envoy John Kerry emphasized the necessity for “enhancement” in the language concerning fossil fuels.

Around 12 delegates at the summit stood in silence, holding hands and lining the route to a room where negotiators gathered.

The omission of words has created an uproar, despite the draft deal presenting eight strategies to reduce emissions including cutting back on fossil fuel consumption and ramping up renewables.

As the clock ticks towards the summit’s end, developing countries emphasize the necessity for adequate support during the transition to cleaner energy systems.