A new draft final agreement at UN climate summit calls on countries to transition away from fossil fuels but not phase them out, as demanded by many summit participants
The text of the agreement recognises the need for deep, rapid and sustained reductions to limit temperature rises to 1.5C over pre industrial levels.
It calls on countries to contribute to global efforts “in a just, orderly and equitable manner, accelerating action in this critical decade, so as to achieve net zero by 2050 in keeping with the science”.
Reacting to the agreement reached today at COP28, Environmental Audit Committee Chair, Rt Hon Philip Dunne MP, said:
“The penny has dropped at COP and all nations have agreed to move away from fossil fuels and to phase down the use of unabated coal power. While it’s disappointing there was not agreement to phase out fossil fuels, the final agreement recognises that the days of oil, gas and coal powering global economies are numbered. The world has agreed to transition to a decarbonised global economy.
“As the Committee made clear in its report on accelerating the transition from fossil fuels, the UK must approach the low carbon future with enthusiasm and unwavering commitment. By switching off fossil fuels at the current time we risk energy instability: so every effort must now be made to find reliable low carbon energy and effective energy storage to keep the lights on throughout the year. This is critical for the UK to do its part in keeping global temperatures below 1.5 degrees C.
“I would like to pay tribute to the UK delegation that has worked tirelessly with partners to reach agreement: the first such COP agreement where all nations have agreed a transition away from all fossil fuels.
“Now all nations must put their words into action. I am encouraged to note the agreements between the UAE Presidency and Brazil which will establish a framework for deeper global cooperation on climate and nature issues in preparation for COP30 in Belem in 2025.”
