Dubai, 05 December 2023 — The Brussels International Center (BIC) team actively participated in the 6-day proceedings of the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) held in Dubai, where crucial global initiatives and commitments were unveiled to address the pressing challenges of climate change. BIC's team closely followed and reported on significant announcements that have far-reaching implications for our planet's sustainable future.
As COP28 unfolds, nations engage in a critical process known as the "global stocktake" to assess progress eight years post-Paris Agreement. This entails a comprehensive report card on global standing and strategies to rectify shortcomings. The political response, a focal point of COP28 negotiations, is encapsulated in the draft negotiating text unveiled on Tuesday. Notably, the text introduces three pivotal options for fossil fuel language within the global stocktake:
- An orderly and just phaseout of fossil fuels;
- Accelerating efforts towards phasing out unabated fossil fuels, swiftly reducing their use, aiming for net-zero CO2 in energy systems by or around mid-century.
This unveiling precedes the final communique, offering a glimpse into the evolving dialogue on addressing climate challenges and transitioning away from fossil fuel dependency. The current negotiations also highlight U.S.-EU disparities in phasing out unabated coal, gas, and oil. While both advocate reduction, the EU emphasizes targeted carbon capture, especially in sectors like steel. The text lacks clarity on addressing the climate finance gap, underscoring the need for unified strategies. This spotlight on carbon capture and financial challenges marks a pivotal moment in global climate action.
One of the landmark achievements witnessed during COP28 was the signing of the Global Cooling Pledge by over 60 countries. This commitment aims to slash cooling-related CO2 emissions by a minimum of 68% by 2050. However, as the world continues to experience rising temperatures, the demand for cooling solutions, including air conditioning systems, is expected to surge. According to a UNEP report released during the conference, the installed cooling capacity is projected to triple by 2050, leading to an alarming rise in emissions, potentially accounting for one-tenth of the world's total carbon emissions.
In addition to the Global Cooling Pledge, COP28 saw 39 countries pledging to boost the global market for hydrogen energy. The Global eCooking Coalition actively promoted electric cooking as a means to facilitate a just transition to a net-zero future.
Recognizing global changemakers, COP28 acknowledged 39 individuals for their outstanding contributions in advancing solutions that accelerate the energy transition. Furthermore, an initiative, the 'Gender-Responsive Just Transitions & Climate Action Partnership,' endorsed by over 60 Parties, was unveiled. With a comprehensive three-year package of measures, the partnership seeks to address the disproportionate impact of climate-related job loss on women.
A pivotal moment at COP28 was the launch of an international plan by US special climate envoy John Kerry to boost nuclear fusion technology. Acknowledging the potential of fusion to revolutionize the world, Kerry emphasized the need for collaborative efforts involving 35 nations. The plan will focus on research and development, regulation, safety, and addressing supply chain challenges. While recognizing significant scientific and engineering hurdles, Kerry expressed optimism about the transformative power of nuclear fusion technology.
The Brussels International Center commends these significant strides taken at COP28 and remains committed to fostering international cooperation to address the urgent challenges posed by climate change.