The president of the upcoming COP28 climate conference, Sultan al-Jaber, has stressed the urgent need for governments and industries worldwide to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across all sectors. Al-Jaber, who also leads a state oil company in the United Arab Emirates, highlighted the recent record-breaking heat as a clear indicator of the necessity for immediate action. Speaking at a meeting in Brussels with officials from Europe, Canada, and China, he emphasized the importance of honesty in addressing the causes of rising global temperatures and implementing effective solutions.
A key point of contention lies in the scope of emissions reductions. While many fossil fuel companies have committed to reducing direct and indirect emissions from their operations (scope 1 and 2), they often resist addressing scope 3 emissions, which stem from the use of their products by consumers. Al-Jaber insisted on tackling "all emissions, everywhere," including scope 3, and proposed a collaborative effort involving governments, energy producers, and high-emission industries to develop a practical plan for limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, as outlined in the Paris Agreement.
Scientists emphasize the urgency of this goal, stating that global emissions must be halved by 2030. However, current progress is insufficient, and skepticism surrounds the effectiveness of technological solutions proposed by some in the fossil fuel industry and governments. Al-Jaber advocated for utilizing all available tools, such as nuclear energy, battery storage, and carbon capture technologies, particularly in sectors with the most challenging emissions reductions. He also called for a substantial increase in renewable energy production and financial support for developing nations to transition away from polluting fuels and adapt to climate change impacts.
Frans Timmermans, the EU's top climate official, expressed concern over the continued higher investment in fossil fuels compared to climate action, describing it as "subsidizing an attack on humanity." He stressed the need for governments to present a credible plan to address the climate crisis and prevent public despair, particularly as global warming accelerates and disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. Timmermans also proposed an annual commemoration of climate crisis victims on July 15, the anniversary of devastating floods in Western Europe.
