Last weekend, for the first time ever, Earth’s temperature momentarily broke a crucial threshold. On Friday, the 17th, the global average temperature was 2°C warmer than levels before industrialisation—a limit that experts have long warned could cause lasting and catastrophic damage to our planet and its ecosystems. Although we have not exceeded the threshold permanently, it points to a planet that is getting hotter and hotter and desperately needs to slash greenhouse gas emissions. With the above in mind, and as 2023 shapes up to be the hottest year on record, the urgency to limit global warming has never been greater. Fortunately, we have climate conferences like COP28 to address these issues on a global scale! This year’s agenda will focus on accelerating the clean energy transition to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and putting nature and communities at the heart of impactful climate action, with the aim of making the conference the "most inclusive" ever. To keep you in the loop, here are some of the top concerns, updates and themes surrounding the world's largest climate conference: - Building on COP27 progress, there are hopes to develop the Loss and Damage fund, where richer countries aid poorer nations most impacted by climate change.
- The future of 'unabated' fossil fuels will be a central debate at this year's COP. Some are calling for a 'phase down' of coal, oil and gas, while others are pushing for a full 'phase out'.
- The appointment of Sultan Al Jaber, CEO of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, as this year's president has sparked controversy. This will be the first time the CEO of any company has headed the conference.
- At COP26, fossil fuel industry delegates outnumbered delegates from any single country. The United Nations will now ask attendees mandatory questions regarding their affiliation to the industry in a bid to cap fossil fuel influence.
- During COP28, the UAE has promised that 'peaceful' protests will be allowed. But scepticism remains due to the state's 'zero tolerance for dissent', as highlighted by Human Rights Watch.
- Several world leaders are set to attend, from King Charles who will be delivering the opening address, to Pope Francis, who confirmed his attendance in a passionate appeal for "foot-dragging politicians to step up".
- The urgency of bold climate action will be highlighted by holding the very first "Global Stocktake" before the conference. Countries' progress towards their goals under the Paris Agreement will be evaluated using this "report card" on climate change.
Despite the complexities and challenges of this year's conference, holding those in power accountable and actively participating in the process is the key to driving meaningful change. Just as countries in the Global South pushed for progress and accountability at the Plastics Treaty talks, so should nations from every corner of the globe at COP28.
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The upcoming COP28, set against the backdrop of Earth's temperature briefly surpassing the 2°C threshold, underscores the critical need for urgent global action on climate change. As the hottest year on record unfolds, the conference aims to accelerate the clean energy transition, cut greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, and prioritize nature and communities in climate action. Key concerns include developing the Loss and Damage fund, debating the future of unabated fossil fuels, and addressing controversies surrounding the appointment of Sultan Al Jaber as conference president.
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Great information cop28 will be of great significant and win for the first time of our environment 💪
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We've been eagerly waiting for cop28,hoping it will be a no brainer to solve and formulate great commitments and measures to streamline the climate change issue.
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Great insights! Lets hope that COP28 will prioritize the most pressing issues!
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Looking forward to seeing meaningful contributions.
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This really incredible 👏.
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Brilliant points to look at ahead of the huge summit
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@esther_wanjiku_785 seems it will be lit
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It will be a crucial opportunity for nations to come together and reaffirm their commitment to tackling climate change.
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This COP should provide various answers on the burning global
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@saustine_lusanzu looking forward to the discussions of Cop this year.
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We are looking forward to participating in this upcoming events which it will result to great and a win in our environment 💪
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Brilliant insights herein
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We are anticipating for positive outcomes.
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@rashid_kamau hoping to get solutions for our planet
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Great points of consideration, thanks for sharing your insights
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We are hoping that #COP28 leads to the change we've desired for so long in the climate sector
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This is amazing cop28 will bear more fruit and our nation will see alot of change especially our environment will win alot
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Thank you for sharing! Will you be at COP this year?