COP 28 Live Blog - 3rd December

UNFCCC
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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: 4th December Previous: 2nd December﻿﻿﻿﻿﻿﻿﻿﻿
Hosted by WeDontHaveTime and Lostisland 
Here's What Happened In The Last 24 Hours:Updated 04:00h GST/UTC+4 – 4/12/23 
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The fourth day of COP 28, the United Nations Climate Change Conference, brought renewed energy and a focus on public engagement as the Green Zone opened its doors to the general public. After three days of intensive negotiations and high-level addresses, the “Sustainability District” at Expo City Dubai transformed into a hub of interactive exhibits, art installations, film screenings, and over 300 talks and discussions. 
Al Jaber Questions Fossil Fuel Phaseout: COP 28 President Sultan Al Jaber, who also serves as the CEO of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), reportedly made controversial remarks suggesting that there is no scientific consensus on the necessity of phasing out fossil fuels to keep global warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius. His comments sparked criticism from environmental groups and climate experts.
Organizations Urge Fossil Fuel Talks Ban: A coalition of over 60 organizations issued a joint appeal to governments participating in COP 28, urging them to refrain from engaging in discussions that promote fossil fuels. The group stressed that such talks undermine the very purpose of COP 28.
Forests at the Center of Carbon Market Negotiations: Behind closed doors, negotiators from around the world are engaged in heated discussions about the role of carbon markets in the Paris Agreement. Forests have become a focal point, with some nations advocating for their inclusion in carbon trading schemes while others raise concerns about potential exploitation and commodification.
Australia Backs Global Energy Capacity Tripling: Australia endorsed a commitment to triple global energy capacity by 2050, indicating a shift in its stance towards climate action under the new Labor government. However, the country remains cautious about advocating for a fossil fuel phaseout in COP 28 negotiations.
Clinton Calls for Insurance Industry Reform: Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton advocated for a major overhaul of the insurance industry, highlighting the growing gap in coverage for communities vulnerable to climate change. She warned that rising climate risks are forcing insurance companies to withdraw from high-risk areas, leaving individuals and businesses without vital protection.
China Struggles with Methane Emissions Reduction: China's special envoy on climate change acknowledged the country's challenges in rapidly reducing methane emissions. He cited technological limitations and monitoring difficulties as obstacles to setting clear targets and accelerating progress.
Dubai Crown Prince Meets with SIDS Leaders: Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, engaged with government leaders and delegates from Small Island Developing States (SIDS), recognizing their unique vulnerabilities to climate change. 
Lack of Transparency Undermines Emissions Reporting: New data from Climate Trace, an initiative led by former US Vice President Al Gore, exposed a critical gap in emissions reporting by nations and businesses. This lack of transparency undermines global efforts to track progress and hold actors accountable for their emissions reductions.
Global Donors Pledge for Neglected Tropical Diseases: In a significant boost to global health efforts, donors pledged over $777 million to tackle neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and improve the lives of over 1.6 billion people. This funding will support initiatives to prevent, control, and eliminate these devastating diseases that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.
World Religions Unite for Environmental Protection: Pope Francis issued a call for world religions to unite in protecting the environment, emphasizing their moral obligation to act on behalf of the planet. He urged religious leaders to contemplate the interconnectedness of humanity and nature, warning that the “rapacious illusion of omnipotence” is devastating our planet.
Brazil Joins OPEC+ As An Observer: In a significant shift, Brazil announced its decision to join the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC+) as an observer, not as a full member. 
Indonesia Accelerates Coal Plant Closure: In a landmark move, Indonesia and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed an agreement to retire the Cirebon-1 coal-fired power plant seven years ahead of schedule. This decision marks a major milestone for Indonesia's transition to clean energy and significantly reduces the country's greenhouse gas emissions.
Pope Francis Calls On World Religions To Unite In Protecting The EnvironmentUpdated 23:25h GST/UTC+4 – 3/12/23 
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Pope Francis has issued a call to world religions to unite in protecting the environment. In a message to COP 28, the Pope said that religions have a “moral obligation” to act on behalf of the planet.
“Religions, as voices of conscience for humanity, remind us that we are finite creatures, possessed of a need for the infinite...For we are indeed mortal, we have our limits, and protecting life also entails opposing the rapacious illusion of omnipotence that is devastating our planet...This is an essential obligation for religions, which are called to teach contemplation, since creation is not only an ecosystem to preserve, but also a gift to embrace..A world poor in contemplation will be a world polluted in soul, a world that will continue to discard people and produce waste..”
Lula: Brazil To Join OPEC+ As Observer, Continue Exploring For OilUpdated 22:35h GST/UTC+4 – 3/12/23 
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Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said today that Brazil will join the OPEC+ group of oil-producing nations as an observer, not as a full member. This decision marks a shift from Lula's previous statements that Brazil would “participate” in OPEC+.
“Brazil will never be a full member of OPEC, because we don't want to be. What we want is to influence.”
Lula explained that Brazil's goal in joining OPEC+ is to influence the group's decisions and encourage oil-rich countries to invest in renewable energy. 
“I think that in participating this way, we will convince people that a part of the money made from oil should be invested for us to nullify oil, creating alternatives...there is no contradiction.”
He also said that Brazil's state-run oil company, Petrobras, will continue to “explore for oil,” but will also expand its focus to other energy sources.
“Petrobras will continue to do what it needs to do to help Brazil grow, but will expand beyond just oil to all energy”
Brazil's decision to “join” OPEC+ as “an observer” has been met with criticism from environmentalists, who argue that it contradicts Brazil's commitment to climate action. However, Lula has defended the decision, saying that it is important for Brazil to have a seat at the table when it comes to discussions about energy policy.
Indonesia To Close Coal Plant 7 Years EarlyUpdated 19:21h GST/UTC+4 – 3/12/23 
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In a landmark move, Indonesia and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed an agreement to retire the Cirebon-1 coal-fired power plant seven years ahead of schedule. This first-of-its-kind project marks a significant milestone for the ADB's Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM) program, designed to support countries in their transition to clean energy.
Currently supplying power to the capital city Jakarta, the 660-megawatt Cirebon-1 plant will bid farewell to coal in December 2035, instead of the originally planned date of July 2042. This early shutdown, combined with the Just Energy Transition Partnership established last year, positions Indonesia on a promising trajectory to reach its peak emissions target by 2030.
“Addressing coal plants is crucial for achieving our climate goals...This pilot transaction allows us to learn and shape this model for implementation in other countries.”
- David Elzinga, ETM team leader
The agreement, signed by the ADB, PT PLN (Indonesian state-owned power utility), PT Cirebon Electric Power (independent power producer), and the Indonesia Investment Authority (INA), will terminate the power purchase agreement for Cirebon-1. This early retirement translates to preventing the release of greenhouse gasses from the plant for over 15 years, propelling Indonesia's journey towards decarbonization.
Before becoming finalized, the deal requires comprehensive due diligence, encompassing environmental impact assessments, assessment of potential social impacts on workers and communities, and broader implications for the electricity grid. Nevertheless, the agreement is anticipated to be finalized within the first half of 2024.
Former U.S. Secretary Of State Calls For Reform Of The Insurance SectorUpdated 19:05h GST/UTC+4 – 3/12/23 
COP 28 Resilience Hub
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Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has called for a major overhaul of the insurance industry, highlighting the growing gap in coverage for communities vulnerable to climate change. Speaking on a panel about women and climate resilience, Clinton warned that rising climate risks are forcing companies to pull out of areas most affected, leaving individuals and businesses without vital protection.
“We need to rethink the insurance industry..Insurance companies are pulling out of so many places. They're not insuring homes. They're not insuring businesses.”
The consequences are particularly severe for lower-income countries and communities, where resources are already scarce. Clinton cited the example of Indian women working in harsh outdoor conditions with no safety net. 
“As the climate changes, as storms increase and drought and heat increase..it's not just ... poor, hard-working women in India. It's people everywhere who are going to be left out with no backup, no insurance for their business or their home.”
The trend extends beyond developing nations, with insurers in the U.S. already retreating from high-risk areas like wildfire-prone California forests and hurricane-battered coastal regions. Clinton warned that this is just the beginning.
“People in the United States, Europe, they're going to wake up and say, 'What do you mean, I can't get insurance?'"
The lack of insurance coverage poses a serious threat to economic stability and climate resilience. Without access to financial protection, individuals and businesses are left vulnerable to financial devastation in the wake of natural disasters.
Clinton has advocated for the development of innovative solutions, such as parametric insurance, which offers pre-determined payouts based on specific triggers like weather events exceeding certain thresholds. Such models can help bridge the gap in coverage for underserved communities, providing them with much-needed financial security in a changing climate.
The call for reform underscores the critical role of the insurance sector in mitigating the impact of climate change. As extreme weather events become more frequent and intense, ensuring access to affordable and comprehensive insurance will be crucial for building a more resilient future for all.
Forest Conservation Takes Center Stage In Carbon Market NegotiationsUpdated 18:04h GST/UTC+4 – 3/12/23 
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Behind closed doors, a tense battle rages over the fate of forests in the fight against climate change. Negotiators from around the world are locked in a heated debate about the role of carbon markets in the Paris Agreement, with forests caught in the crosshairs.
One camp, led by nations like Brazil and Indonesia, sees carbon markets as a golden opportunity. They envision a system where rich nations, like the UK and Saudi Arabia, pay them to keep their forests standing, essentially buying "carbon credits" for the carbon dioxide that those forests absorb. This, they argue, would generate much-needed financial resources for forest conservation and provide a powerful incentive for sustainable land use.
On the other side, concerns are brewing like a storm. Some experts fear that carbon markets could be a Pandora's box, unleashing a wave of "hot air" trading. This would allow polluters to avoid making real emissions cuts by simply buying credits from others, potentially undermining the entire Paris Agreement. Others worry that carbon markets could prioritize financial gain over genuine environmental protection, leading to exploitation of vulnerable communities and the commodification of nature.
The stakes are high. With nearly four out of five countries relying on carbon markets to meet their climate goals, the outcome of this negotiation will have a profound impact on the future of our planet's forests. Will they remain as vital guardians of our climate, or will they become mere commodities in a high-stakes game of carbon cowboys? The answer hangs in the balance, and the eyes of the world are watching.
60+ Organizations Urge Governments To Shun Fossil Fuels Talks At COP28Updated 17:20h GST/UTC+4 – 3/12/23 
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A coalition of over 60 organizations coordinated by Lostisland has issued an appeal to governments participating in COP 28 to refrain from engaging in discussions that promote fossil fuels and instead focus on constructive dialogues that advance the transition to renewable energy sources.
The joint statement, originally published on the 1st December and republished today, expresses “deep concern” over the UAE's intentions, which were revealed in leaked briefing documents. These documents indicate that the UAE's COP 28 team developed talking points to discuss fossil fuel deals with at least 15 nations. The group emphasizes that such actions by the UAE run counter to the very essence of COP 28, which is to accelerate global efforts to combat climate change through mitigation and adaptation strategies, not to advance the vested interests of the fossil fuel industry.
Today, reports have emerged that Sultan Al Jaber, the President of COP 28, reportedly stated in a recorded meeting that there is no scientific consensus on the necessity of phasing out fossil fuels to keep global warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius. Al Jaber reportedly went further to say that phasing out fossil fuels would hinder sustainable development.
“Unless you want to take the world back into caves.”
Global Donors Pledge Over $777 Million To Tackle Neglected Tropical DiseasesUpdated 16:35h GST/UTC+4 – 3/12/23 
UNFCCC
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Global donors have pledged over US$777 million today, the inaugural health day at COP 28, to defeat Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) and “improve the lives of 1.6 billion people”. World leaders and international foundations discussed solutions to the “perfect storm” of climate change and the imposing threat of NTDs.
“Reaching the Last Mile,” the foundation of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed, joined with the Gates Foundation and global partners to announce a milestone expansion of the Reaching the Last Mile Fund (RLMF) from $100 million to $500 million. The coalition aims to eradicate two destructive NTDs: river blindness, which causes blindness, and Lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis, which causes painful swelling of limbs.
“The UAE is proud to host this pivotal conference and expresses gratitude to all those who have seized the opportunity to renew their commitment to end neglected tropical diseases...Today’s demonstration of global solidarity reflects a shared determination to deliver a better and more dignified future for all. Incredible progress over the last two decades has proved that a world free of NTDs is an achievable goal.” 
- Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs
COP 28 President: “No Science” Shows Fossil Fuel Phaseout Needed...“Unless You Want To Take The World Back Into Caves”Updated 15:20h GST/UTC+4 – 3/12/23 
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Sultan Al Jaber, the United Arab Emirates' president of the COP 28, reportedly stated in a meeting that there is no scientific consensus on the necessity of phasing out fossil fuels to keep global warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels.
According to the Guardian and the Centre for Climate Reporting, in a recorded session, Al Jaber asserted that phasing out fossil fuels would hinder sustainable development, remarking, “Unless you want to take the world back into caves.” 
Al Jaber also serves as the head of Adnoc, the UAE's national oil company, a position that many observers have deemed an inherent conflict of interest.
Chinese Climate Envoy Says Nation Is Struggling To Quickly Cut Methane EmissionsUpdated 15:05h GST/UTC+4 – 3/12/23 
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China is still facing “serious challenges” in reducing methane emissions said the special envoy on climate from the world's largest emitter. Speaking at an event hosted with the United States and the United Arab Emirates, Xie Zhenhua, cited weaknesses in technology and an inability to monitor the gas to explain why the country cannot move faster or set clear targets.
Xie added that China is still a developing country and is not yet able to move faster on methane emissions.
“...we are willing to do it but we are not yet able.”
Beijing has so far been reluctant to set methane emissions targets, in part because so much of the gas comes from massive coal mines. When asked Xie replied that the country was “working on a plan.”
1 In 12 Hospitals At Risk Due To Climate Change Updated 14:05h GST/UTC+4 – 3/12/23 
UNFCCC
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A report by the Cross Dependency Initiative (XDI) has raised a stark warning: one in twelve hospitals worldwide is at risk of full or partial shutdown due to the escalating impacts of climate change. The XDI report, released on yesterday, ahead of COP 28 Health Day, paints a sobering picture of the potential consequences of inaction. Without a rapid phase-out of fossil fuels, an additional 16,245 hospitals will be at risk of closure by the end of the century, more than doubling the number currently facing this threat. 
This would have catastrophic implications for healthcare systems worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where the majority of these vulnerable hospitals are located.
Extreme weather events, exacerbated by climate change, pose a significant threat to hospital operations. Hurricanes, severe storms, flooding, and wildfires can disrupt power supply, damage infrastructure, and hinder access to essential medical services. The report emphasizes that the financial burden of adapting or relocating hospitals will fall disproportionately on lower-income countries, further straining their already limited resources.
“Climate change is increasingly impacting the health of people around the world...What happens when severe weather results in hospital shutdowns as well? Our analysis shows that without a rapid phase-out of fossil fuels, the risks to global health will be exacerbated further, as thousands of hospitals become unable to deliver services during crises.”
- Dr Karl Mallon, the Director of Science and Technology at XDI
The implications of hospital closures extend far beyond the disruption of medical services. These facilities serve as critical anchors for communities, providing not only healthcare but also employment, social support, and a sense of security. The loss of a hospital can have a devastating impact on the physical and mental well-being of entire communities.
Australia Endorses Global Energy Capacity Tripling PledgeUpdated 13:30h GST/UTC+4 – 3/12/23 
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Australia has endorsed a commitment to triple global energy capacity by 2050. Climate minister Chris Bowen, however, refrained from confirming if Australia will advocate for phasing out fossil fuels in COP 28 texts. Bowen expressed a commitment to constructive discussions, aiming for strengthened language and consensus, distinguishing this approach from past instances where Australia impeded progress in climate talks. 
Despite a history of resistance under previous coalition governments, there is optimism for positive change under Anthony Albanese's Labor government. The country has shown interest in hosting COP 31, but a decision timeline remains uncertain.
Global Emissions Reporting: A Broken Promise, A Rising Threat Updated 13:15h GST/UTC+4 – 3/12/23 
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New data from Former U.S. Vice President Al Gore's Climate Trace initiative, exposes a sobering truth: nations and businesses are failing to accurately report their emissions, a critical commitment outlined in the Paris Agreement. This lack of transparency undermines global efforts to combat climate change and puts us on a dangerous trajectory.
China and India's electricity sectors, along with the US's oil and gas industry, stand out as major culprits. Since 2015, their emissions have surged, significantly contributing to the rise in global greenhouse gases. This casts a shadow over the Paris Agreement's central goal of limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
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Crown Prince Of Dubai Meets With Small Island Developing StatesUpdated 12:45h GST/UTC+4 – 3/12/23
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Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, engaged with government leaders and delegates from Small Island Developing States (SIDS) yesterday, addressing the challenges and vulnerabilities these nations face due to climate change. The gathering included representatives from 39 states and 18 associate members of UN regional commissions spanning the Caribbean, Pacific, Atlantic, Indian Oceans, and the South China Sea.
The SIDS delegates commended the UAE's dedication to establishing a $30 billion fund for global climate solutions. Sheikh Hamdan underscored the UAE's initiatives in countering climate change, reducing carbon emissions, and fostering sustainable practices through long-term programs like the Net Zero 2050 Strategy.
Public Engagement Begins At COP 28Updated 12:25h GST/UTC+4 – 3/12/23
UNFCCC
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The much-anticipated Green Zone opens its doors today to the general public. After three days of intensive negotiations and high-level addresses, the “Sustainability District” at Expo City Dubai is now abuzz with diverse events and workshops.
This free-to-visit zone welcomes all with interactive exhibits, art installations, film screenings, and over 300 talks and discussions. It's a platform for learning, engagement, and collaboration around climate change and sustainability solutions. Due to overwhelming demand, ticketing for today's entry closed last night.
“What Progress Was Made In The Negotiation Rooms?”Updated 11:45h GST/UTC+4 – 3/12/23 
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Adaptation dominated much of the negotiations. It was the central theme of the GST, with countries expressing divergent views on various adaptation issues, ranging from including maladaptation to tracking a potential doubling of adaptation finance. Several delegates in the contact groups and informal consultations urged for expedited negotiations, but discussions on the Global Goal on Adaptation yielded minimal consensus on starting to draft a decision text.
Other discussions on carbon markets revealed more headway: delegates are already contemplating decision text in the consultations on the Paris Agreement Article 6.2 on cooperative approaches, and some convergence seems to be emerging for the Article 6.4 mechanism. Some described the finance discussions on the Standing Committee on Finance as “constructive.” Given the complex agenda for these finance talks, this could signal a positive turning point.
“What Happened During The High-Level Sessions?”Updated 11:15h GST/UTC+4 – 3/12/23 
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During the High-level session on Climate and Health, more than 120 countries endorsed the Climate and Health Declaration, a call for action to safeguard communities and health systems from climate impacts like scorching heat waves and rampant infectious diseases. 
“The climate crisis is a health crisis.”
- World Health Organization Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus 
Leaders from the Group of 77 and China held their first formal meeting at a Climate COP, discussions underlined the importance of collaboration within the group to tackle the climate crisis. UN Secretary-General António Guterres seized the opportunity to unveil a new Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals. This panel aims to empower developing nations rich in resources crucial for the energy shift.
The high-level segment of the Global Stocktake (GST) wrapped up with leaders deliberating on mitigation and support for developing countries. A roundtable on mountains amplified calls for greater recognition of the climate vulnerability of these ecosystems within climate negotiations. This concern resonated with leaders discussing the unique challenges faced by landlocked developing countries. 
Convening world leaders and diverse stakeholders, the high-level Global Climate Action event through fireside chats and speeches, championed scalable solutions to boost resilience, bridge the adaptation gap, mobilize funding, and keep the 1.5°C goal within reach.
Good Morning!Updated 11:00 GST/UTC+4 - 3/12/23.
UNFCCC
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Welcome to the fourth day of our special live coverage of COP 28. We will continue to bring you real-time updates, insights, and exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses of the event, offering a comprehensive overview of the discussions, decisions, and outcomes of COP 28.
COP 28 Live Blog - 3rd December

Next: 4th December

Previous: 2nd December

Here's What Happened In The Last 24 Hours:

Pope Francis Calls On World Religions To Unite In Protecting The Environment

Lula: Brazil To Join OPEC+ As Observer, Continue Exploring For Oil

Indonesia To Close Coal Plant 7 Years Early

Former U.S. Secretary Of State Calls For Reform Of The Insurance Sector

Forest Conservation Takes Center Stage In Carbon Market Negotiations

60+ Organizations Urge Governments To Shun Fossil Fuels Talks At COP28

Global Donors Pledge Over $777 Million To Tackle Neglected Tropical Diseases

COP 28 President: “No Science” Shows Fossil Fuel Phaseout Needed...“Unless You Want To Take The World Back Into Caves”

Chinese Climate Envoy Says Nation Is Struggling To Quickly Cut Methane Emissions

1 In 12 Hospitals At Risk Due To Climate Change

Australia Endorses Global Energy Capacity Tripling Pledge

Global Emissions Reporting: A Broken Promise, A Rising Threat

Crown Prince Of Dubai Meets With Small Island Developing States

Public Engagement Begins At COP 28

“What Progress Was Made In The Negotiation Rooms?”

“What Happened During The High-Level Sessions?”

Good Morning!

Welcome, let's solve the climate crisis together
