The world has agreed to move away from fossil fuels, but not everyone is happy with the outcome.
The UN Climate Summit in Dubai has ended with a historic deal that calls for all countries to transition away from using fossil fuels, the main cause of global warming. However, the deal does not specify a timeline or a target for the phase-out, leaving some governments and activists disappointed and angry.
The agreement which was reached after days of intense negotiations recognises the urgent need for deep, rapid, and sustained reductions to limit global temperature rises to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. COP28 President, Sultan AL-Jaber praised the deal, saying that nations have “confronted realities and set the world in the right direction.”
However, not everyone shares his optimism as representatives from Island nations, which are among the most vulnerable to climate change expressed frustration and dismay. Samoa’s representative said they were “not in the room” when the deal was approved. Campaign groups, such as Greenpeace, also slammed the agreement, arguing that it fails to achieve a transition to renewable energy in a “fair and fast manner.”
UN Secretary-General António Guterres addressed the controversy, sending a message to those who opposed a clear reference to the phase-out of fossil fuels. Guterres said, “Whether you like it or not, fossil fuel phase-out is inevitable. Let’s hope it doesn’t come too late.”
Outside the main negotiation room, reactions varied among key players. Denmark’s climate minister, Dan Jannik Jørgensen, said that European countries had hoped for stronger language and increased solidarity with the developing world. He noted that the world has finally acknowledged the need to move away from fossils.
New Zealand’s climate change minister echoed similar sentiments, calling the deal imperfect but “a step forward.” He emphasised the importance of addressing climate financing for countries most impacted by climate change, especially small island nations.
Australia’s climate minister, Chris Bowen, labelled the deal a “strong result” and an “important milestone.” However, he admitted that it falls short of certain expectations, echoing the concerns of the US and small island nations. Bowen celebrated the inclusion of commitments to increase renewable energy in the agreement, signalling progress on the global shift toward cleaner sources of energy.
As the world reacts to the Dubai climate deal, one question remains: Is this a breakthrough or a betrayal for the future of the planet?
