OPEC Members Push Against Including “Phasing Out” Fossil Fuels in COP28 Climate Deal
OPEC’s Stance
OPEC members are resisting efforts to include language on “phasing out” fossil fuels in a COP28 climate deal, signaling a struggle over whether the summit can address the future of oil and gas for the first time in 30 years.
Negotiation Challenges
Negotiators and observers at the annual U.N. climate talks reported that OPEC members seemed inclined to veto any deal to phase out fossil fuels, following a letter by OPEC Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais urging members to reject language targeting fossil fuels.
Focus on Reducing Emissions
Al Ghais emphasized that OPEC’s focus at the talks is on reducing emissions rather than singling out energy sources, highlighting the need for major investments in all energies, including hydrocarbons.
Push for COP28 Deal
Over 80 countries are demanding a COP28 deal that calls for an eventual end to fossil fuel use to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, facing resistance from oil and gas-reliant countries promoting technologies like carbon capture.
High Ambition Coalition’s Perspective
Tina Stege, climate envoy of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, stressed the urgency of phasing out fossil fuels, emphasizing that it is crucial for the world’s prosperity and the future of all people affected by climate change.
Ministerial Input and Negotiating Text
As the negotiations move into the critical stage, the latest version of the negotiating text includes options ranging from agreeing to a “phase out of fossil fuels in line with best available science” to including no language on them at all.
Challenges Ahead
Wael Aboulmagd, special representative to the COP27 Egyptian presidency, highlighted the deadlock in talks on measures to help nations adapt to extreme weather and other climate change impacts, expressing concern over the numerous options in the text on fossil fuels.