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COP 28 Live Blog - 6th December
UNFCCC
Welcome to our live blog of the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP 28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), taking place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Over the next two weeks, world leaders, policymakers, activists, and experts will gather to discuss and negotiate critical issues related to climate change, biodiversity, and sustainability. The stakes are high, as the world faces a climate crisis that demands urgent and transformative action.
We will be bringing you real-time updates, insights, and exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses of the event, providing a comprehensive overview of the discussions, decisions, and outcomes of COP 28.
Next: 8th December
Previous: 5th December
“See You On Friday!”
Updated 23:35h GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23
UNFCCC
Day 7 of COP 28 has concluded, and with it, our live blog coverage for today. Negotiations will take a “rest day” tomorrow, but that doesn't mean the work stops! We'll be back on Friday with fresh updates and insights.
However, WeDontHaveTime is not leaving you empty-handed. Tomorrow, the COP 28 Climate Hub will be live from the American University in Washington DC, for a packed day of panels on climate activism, green jobs, just transition, climate litigation, and much more.
You can also revisit our live blogs for the last 6 days;
Here's a recap of key points from today:
- Parties Reach Agreement on Santiago Network to Assist Climate-Vulnerable Developing Countries: This landmark agreement marks a significant step towards providing crucial technical assistance to developing countries facing the brunt of climate change impacts. The network will function as a central hub, connecting developing nations with a diverse network of organizations, bodies, and experts.
- Joint Outcome on Urbanization and Climate Change: The COP 28 presidency, alongside UN-Habitat and Bloomberg Philanthropies, convened a ministerial meeting that resulted in a "Joint Outcome Statement on Urbanization and Climate Change" endorsed by various national ministers. The statement outlines a 10-point plan to integrate climate action across governmental levels and secure sufficient adaptation financing for cities.
- Dubai Inaugurates "World's Largest Concentrated Solar Power Project": This impressive project boasts a production capacity of 950 megawatts and will reduce carbon emissions by more than 1.6 million tonnes annually. It aligns with Dubai's Clean Energy Strategy 2050, aiming to achieve 100% clean energy production and complete carbon neutrality by 2050.
- Putin Visits UAE for Oil Talks During COP 28: This sparked strong reactions from Ukrainians and environmental activists attending COP 28, raising concerns about accountability and the potential undermining of efforts to address global issues.
- UNEP, 20+ Nations Launch Global Initiative To Transform Building Industry: The "Buildings Breakthrough Initiative" aims to accelerate the transformation of the building sector towards near-zero emission and climate-resilient buildings by 2030. This initiative has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create a more sustainable future.
- UN Climate Chief Urges Governments To Up Ambitions After "Grab Bag" Stocktake Text: Simon Stiell, the UNFCCC Chief, criticized the current draft of the global stocktake text, calling it vague and lacking concrete steps towards accelerating climate action. He urged governments to provide negotiators with clear instructions to ensure a meaningful outcome.
- EU Climate Chief Demands Complete And Urgent Phase-Out Of Fossil Fuels: EU Climate Commissioner Hoekstra left no room for ambiguity in his demand for a complete and urgent phase-out of fossil fuels. He acknowledged the challenges faced by certain sectors in the green transition but stressed that there is no alternative to phasing out fossil fuels.
- Al Gore proposed voting reforms to enhance the effectiveness of UN Climate Conferences.
- Medical Students: "Climate Crisis = Health Crisis": Medical students staged a peaceful demonstration outside the main meeting rooms, highlighting the connection between climate change and public health. They carried banners urging action to address both issues.
Parties Reach Agreement On Santiago Network To Assist Climate-Vulnerable Developing Countries
Updated 21:21h GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23
UNFCCC
Today, representatives from countries around the world have reached a landmark agreement on the Santiago Network, a platform designed to provide crucial technical assistance to developing countries facing the brunt of climate change impacts. This agreement marks a significant step towards fulfilling commitments made under the Warsaw International Mechanism for Loss and Damage associated with Climate Change Impacts.
The Santiago Network will function as a central hub, connecting developing nations with a diverse network of organizations, bodies, and experts. This collaboration will provide them with access to essential technical knowledge, resources, and solutions for managing climate risks at various levels.
Developed nations have pledged financial support to operationalize the Santiago Network, facilitating knowledge exchange and ensuring access to technical assistance for developing countries. Additionally, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) will jointly host the network's secretariat, leveraging their expertise in disaster risk management and project implementation to guarantee efficient and effective operations.
The establishment of the Santiago Network marks a critical step towards supporting the most vulnerable nations in addressing the devastating consequences of climate change. However, its success relies on effective implementation. Continued collaboration and commitment from all stakeholders, including developing and developed countries, along with relevant organizations, are crucial for ensuring the network delivers on its promises and provides tangible support to those who need it most.
Joint Outcome On Urbanization And Climate Change
Updated 20:27h GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23
UNFCCC
The COP 28 presidency, alongside the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and Bloomberg Philanthropies, convened a ministerial meeting on urbanization and climate change earlier today. This resulted in a "Joint Outcome Statement on Urbanization and Climate Change" endorsed by various national ministers of environment, urban development, and housing.
The statement outlines a 10-point plan to integrate climate action across various governmental levels and secure sufficient adaptation financing for cities. The leadership acknowledges that up to 90% of cities face threats from rising sea levels and storms, while their residents experience significantly higher temperatures compared to rural areas.
“We are empowering and supporting cities on the frontlines of climate change to seize the initiative...We have brought over 450 mayors and governors to COP28 and their hyperlocal knowledge is crucial in informing our global solutions”
- COP28 President Sultan Al Jaber
With cities contributing over 70% of global CO2 emissions, their decarbonization is crucial. However, they also need resilience to withstand increasingly extreme weather events like floods, heatwaves, and droughts. More funding will be essential to support their transformation.
Dubai Inaugurates “World's Largest Concentrated Solar Power Project”
Updated 19:39 GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23
UAE Media Office
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, has officially inaugurated the “world's largest concentrated solar power (CSP) project.” This forms part of the fourth phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park.
The impressive Dh15.78 billion ($4.3 billion) project boasts a production capacity of 950 megawatts, achieved through a combination of CSP and photovoltaic solar panels. Spanning across a vast 44 square kilometers, the project further distinguishes itself with the construction of a 263-meter tall tower.
Beyond its sheer scale, the project holds immense environmental significance. It is estimated to reduce carbon emissions by more than 1.6 million tonnes annually. This aligns with Dubai's Clean Energy Strategy 2050, aiming to achieve 100% clean energy production and complete carbon neutrality by the year 2050.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid emphasized the importance of clean energy for Dubai's future. He stated, “Our goal is for 100 per cent of Dubai's energy production capacity to come from clean sources by 2050....We aim for complete carbon neutrality by the same year.”
Putin Visits UAE For Oil Talks During COP 28
Updated 18:13h GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23
TASS
Russian President Vladimir Putin's arrival in the United Arab Emirates for a "working visit" has sparked strong reactions from Ukrainians and environmental activists attending COP 28. Despite an ongoing arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court, Putin's presence in the country has raised concerns about accountability and the potential undermining of efforts to address pressing global issues.
Ukrainian delegates attending COP 28 voiced their strong disapproval of Putin's visit, emphasizing its insensitivity in light of the ongoing war in their country. Marharyta Bohdanova, working in the Ukrainian Pavilion, described the situation as "extremely upsetting" and a blatant display of hypocrisy. "Seeing how people let people like him in the big events, ... treating him like a dear guest, is just so hypocritical in my opinion," she stated to AP.
Discussions between Putin and UAE leaders are reportedly to cover various topics, including oil production. This stands in stark contrast to the critical negotiations underway at COP 28, aimed at phasing out oil and transitioning to cleaner energy sources. Activists have criticized the meeting, highlighting the contradictory message it sends and the potential for undermining the conference's goals.
“What Has Been Pledged So Far?”
Updated 17:04h GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23
UNFCCC
COP 28 has seen a flurry of pledges across various sectors, with finance commitments exceeding $83 billion in the first five days, according to the COP 28 Presidency. Here's a breakdown of some key areas:
Climate Finance:
- UAE: $30 billion to a new fund for climate-friendly projects globally, including $5 billion for the Global South.
- World Bank: Increase climate funding to 45% of its total lending, an annual increase of $9 billion.
- Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF): $2 billion annually until 2030 for climate action in Latin America.
- Asian Development Bank (ADB): $10 billion for climate investment in the Philippines (2024-2029).
- UAE Banks: Mobilize 1 trillion dirhams ($270 billion) in green finance.
Loss and Damage:
- Total contributions: $726 million as of today (17:00h GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23).
Green Climate Fund:
- New pledges: $3.5 billion, including renewed funding from the United States.
Renewable Energy:
- Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners: Raise $3 billion for building renewable energy projects in emerging and middle-income countries.
Technology:
- Arab Energy Fund: Invest up to $1 billion in decarbonization technologies over five years.
- United States: $568 million loan to the Climate Investment Funds (CIF) for developing low-carbon technologies.
Methane:
- UAE: $100 million to a new World Bank methane trust fund.
- Philanthropies: $450 million over three years to help countries tackle methane.
Nature:
- Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and UAE: $200 million to support smallholder farmers in Africa and Asia adapt to climate change.
- Brazil's national development bank: $205 million to restore Amazon forests.
Health:
- UAE and charities: $777 million for eradicating neglected tropical diseases.
Disaster Relief:
- World Bank: Expand Climate Resilient Debt Clauses to cover all existing loans for vulnerable countries.
- Multiple countries: $300+ million to a new climate disaster fund.
EU Climate Chief Demands Complete And Urgent Phase-Out Of Fossil Fuels
Updated 16:12h GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23
EU Climate Commissioner Hoekstra took a strong stance against fossil fuels in his first press conference at COP 28. Replacing Frans Timmermans just weeks before COP 28, Hoekstra left no room for ambiguity in his demand for a complete and urgent phase-out of fossil fuels.
“Let me be very explicit...We need to phase out all fossil fuels. It is that simple. And not because I say so, but because scientists tell us that that is the goal we must live up to.”
He acknowledged, however, the challenges faced by certain sectors – steel, cement, chemicals, and aviation – in the green transition.
“Having said that, we do have to acknowledge that where we are right now, in the era we are in today, there are some sectors that are very hard to abate.”
Hoekstra also stressed that carbon capture and storage (CCS) is not a silver bullet.
“It does not mean that companies or countries can get away with CCS-ing themselves out of the problem...There is no magic solution. There is no alternative to phasing out fossil fuels, as fast as we can and as broadly as we can.”
Medical Students: “Climate Crisis = Health Crisis”
Updated 15:12h GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23
UNFCCC
Medical students staged a peaceful demonstration outside the main meeting rooms, highlighting the connection between climate change and public health.
Carrying banners that read "Protect health, end fossil fuels" and "Climate crisis = health crisis," they symbolically performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation on a globe, underscoring the urgency of addressing climate change.
The demonstration was organized by members of the International Federation of Medical Students Associations.
UN Climate Chief Urges Governments To Up Ambitions After “Grab Bag” Stocktake Text
Updated 14:16h GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23
UNFCCC
Simon Stiell, the UNFCCC Chief, has criticized the current draft of the global stocktake text, calling it a “grab bag of wishes and heavy on posturing.” Speaking to reporters, Stiell urged governments to provide negotiators with “clear marching orders” to ensure a meaningful outcome.
“...All governments must give their negotiators clear marching orders. We need highest ambition, not point scoring or lowest common denominator politics..We have a starting text on the table...but it’s a grab bag of wish lists and heavy on posturing. The key now is to sort the wheat from the chaff...There are many options that are on the table right now which speak to the phasing out of fossil fuels. It is for parties to unpick that, but come up with a very clear statement that signals the terminal decline of the fossil fuel era as we know it.f...If we want to save lives now and keep the 1.5 degree Celsius goal within reach, the highest ambition COP outcomes must stay front and centre.”
While acknowledging the positive momentum generated by the inclusion of a "loss and damage" mechanism, Stiell stressed that it was only a starting point. He described the current negotiating text as vague and lacking concrete steps towards accelerating climate action.
“At end of next week we need COP to deliver a bullet train to speed up climate action. We currently have an old caboose train chugging over rickety tracks.”
A Pedal For A Better Future
Updated 14:02h GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23
Michael Evertz, a 64-year-old German cyclist, completed an epic 222-day, 8,862-kilometer journey from his home in Berlin to Dubai. Driven by a desire to raise awareness about environmental sustainability and inspire action for a better future, Evertz embarked on his "expedition of hope" on Earth Day, April 22nd, in Berlin. He pedaled through diverse landscapes, from picturesque European cities to arid terrains and bustling urban centers across 14 countries: Germany, France, Austria, Italy, Albania, North Macedonia, Greece, Turkey, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and finally, the United Arab Emirates.
He says he experienced firsthand the multifaceted environmental challenges facing each region. Through his participation in COP 28, Evertz aims to amplify the voices of those most affected by climate change and advocate for effective solutions. He encourages others to take action, no matter how small, to contribute to a more sustainable future.
UNEP, 20+ Nations Launch Global Initiative To Transform Building Industry
Updated 12:56h GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23
The Governments of France and Morocco, alongside the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), have just announced the launch of the “Buildings Breakthrough Initiative.” The initiative aims to accelerate the transformation of the building sector, which currently accounts for 21% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with the goal of making near-zero emission and climate-resilient buildings the norm by 2030.
“...The buildings sector is pivotal for future investments due to its cultural, economic, environmental, and social impact...Partnering with the Kingdom of Morocco and 25 other nations, we call for more countries to join the Buildings Breakthrough, and call governments and all stakeholders to join us in Paris for the Buildings and Climate Global Forum in 2024 to collectively work towards near-zero emission and resilient buildings.”
- Christophe Béchu, Minister for Ecological Transition and Territorial Cohesion of France
Twenty-seven countries have already pledged their commitment to the Buildings Breakthrough, representing a significant portion of the global population, GDP, and greenhouse gas emissions. These nations include Armenia, Austria, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Morocco, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
In addition, the European Commission and 18 international initiatives have announced their support for the initiative. To further this momentum, the first-ever ”Buildings and Climate Global Forum“ will be held in Paris, France, on March 7-8, 2024. This forum will gather construction ministers, local authorities, NGOs, and businesses from across the globe to collaborate on achieving the goals of the Buildings Breakthrough.
Al Gore Proposes Voting Reforms To Enhance Effectiveness
Updated 12:40h GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23
UNFCCC
UN Conferences of the Parties (COPs) traditionally have operated through a consensus-based decision-making system, requiring unanimous agreement from all participating countries. However, in the UNFCCC process, this approach has faced criticism for allowing individual nations, particularly those heavily reliant on fossil fuels, to impede progress and block stronger environmental action. Recent Climate COPs have witnessed this dynamic firsthand. Efforts to include a "phase-out" of fossil fuels in the final conference agreements have been met with resistance, resulting in a weaker "phase-down" language instead.
As reported by Bloomberg, Former US Vice President Al Gore believes it's time for a change. He argues that the current consensus model is hindering meaningful progress and proposes a shift towards a majority-based system. Under this reformed approach, agreements would be reached when at least 75% of participating nations endorse a proposal.
This proposed voting reform aims to empower a larger majority of countries to influence and drive the direction of international climate action, potentially leading to stronger and more effective outcomes at future COPs.
Earth Shatters Heat Records For Sixth Month Straight
Updated 12:25h GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23
Earth continues its scorching streak, setting a new record for hottest November and autumn, according to the European Space Agency's Copernicus Climate Change Service. With less than 28 days left in the year, 2023 is poised to become the hottest year on record, surpassing the previous record set in 2016. November 2023 was nearly a third of a degree Celsius (0.57 degrees Fahrenheit) hotter than the previous hottest November, with temperatures reaching 1.75 degrees Celsius (3.15 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial times.
This marks the sixth consecutive month of record-breaking heat, a trend scientists attribute to both human-caused climate change and the natural El Niño-La Niña cycle. The current El Niño event is adding to the already elevated global temperatures, leading to extreme weather events around the world.
Here are some key highlights from the Copernicus report:
- November 2023 was the hottest November on record, 0.85 degrees Celsius (1.5 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer than the average for the past 30 years.
- Two days in November experienced temperatures 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer than pre-industrial times, an unprecedented event.
- So far, 2023 is 1.46 degrees Celsius (2.6 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer than pre-industrial times, making it the hottest year on record.
- The northern autumn was also the hottest fall on record.
- Scientists warn that current pledges and actions by countries around the world are insufficient to limit warming to the 1.5 degrees Celsius goal set by the Paris Agreement.
These findings underscore the urgency of taking decisive action to address the climate crisis. COP 28 faces the critical task of strengthening international cooperation and implementing ambitious emissions reduction plans to avert the worst impacts of climate change.
Focus Shifts To Transportation And Urban Environments
Updated 12:10h GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23
UNFCCC
Today's agenda shifts to transportation and urban environments. Panel sessions will address these key areas, while national delegates delve deeper into the details of a potential final COP28 deal. On the stage, climate experts and representatives from various countries will showcase their work on making cities more sustainable. This will include showcasing innovative solutions for waste management, sustainable buildings, electric vehicles, and tackling emissions in hard-to-abate industries like cement and steel. Additionally, announcements of new voluntary pledges for climate action policies and financing are expected.
Today's plenary sessions will be crucial, as negotiators will decide which points from the draft agreement will be presented to country ministers for their consideration. Ultimately, any final agreement must be approved by all of the nearly 200 countries participating in COP 28, meaning governments will need to sign off on the details before the conference concludes.
US Climate Envoy John Kerry is scheduled to hold a press conference today, providing an update on the US position and discussing key issues being debated at COP 28. Also, COP 28 President Al-Jaber will address the conference today, outlining his plan for negotiations throughout the remaining days of the summit.
Indigenous Rights, Gender Equality, And Energy Dominated Stalled Negotiations
Updated 11:48h GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23
UNFCCC
Across various negotiation sessions, including the Global Stocktake and discussions on non-market mechanisms and technology, calls for recognizing Indigenous Peoples' rights and integrating them into decision-making processes were repeatedly echoed. However, references to Indigenous women and women in local communities were removed from the draft decision on gender. This move was seen as a step backward by many delegates and countries.
Energy dominated the negotiations, many of which are struggling to finalize draft decisions and conclusions before the Subsidiary Bodies closes today. Discussions on the just transition pathways work programme proved especially contentious, requiring informal consultations to reach a consensus that can be presented to ministers in the second week. Similar challenges arose in discussions on the Global Stocktake, mitigation work programme, and other topics. The task on hand for negotiators is to prepare texts with diverse options for the final COP 28 package negotiations by ministers.
Discussions Focused On Indigenous Knowledge And Energy Transitions
Updated 11:12h GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23
UNFCCC
Yesterday, two key themes took center stage: Indigenous Peoples Day and Energy Transition Day. While no major announcements or funding commitments materialized, the day was marked by important discussions and ongoing negotiations. Indigenous Knowledge Holders engaged in a dialogue with countries and stakeholders, highlighting the crucial role of Indigenous communities in climate action and policy development. Many recognized the importance of meaningful inclusion of Indigenous People.
Energy Transition Day garnered significant attention. Activists inside and around the COP venue staged demonstrations demanding an end to fossil fuels. The Presidency organized high-level roundtables focusing on hydrogen, renewables, and energy efficiency. One concrete outcome was a high-level dialogue addressing the electrification of cooking, aiming to tackle household air pollution associated with solid fuel use, which tragically leads to 2.4 million premature deaths annually.
Good Morning!
Updated 11:00h GST/UTC+4 - 6/12/23
UNFCCC
Welcome back to our live coverage of COP 28! We're thrilled to continue bringing you the latest updates, insightful analyses from experts, and exclusive glimpses into the ongoing negotiations.
Welcome, let's solve the climate crisis together
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21 w
Looking forward to your real-time updates and insights from the conference.
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21 w
We always appreciate for keeping us posted.
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21 w
Your blogs are very insightful! 💚👏Keep us updated.
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21 w
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