BELEM, Brazil (AP) — Environmental groups and several countries criticized proposals from the recent U.N. climate talks, saying they overlooked the core issue of global warming: fossil fuel use, particularly oil, gas, and coal.
These discussions occurred just after a small fire disrupted the conference, leading to evacuations and some people being treated for smoke inhalation. As the talks wrapped up, a central proposal from Brazil, known as the mutirao decision, aimed to address critical matters like climate financing and the need for stronger national climate plans.
One major goal was to create a clear plan to phase out fossil fuels. The current agreement only suggests transitioning away from them, which hasn’t changed in two years. Meanwhile, emissions rise, fueling climate issues like extreme heat, floods, and wildfires.
More than 80 countries called for bolder action, including Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The mutirao decision recognized that moving toward low-emission development is essential. It also referenced the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) from the mid-1800s.
However, many felt the proposals fell short. A letter signed by 36 nations, including the UK, France, and several vulnerable island nations, expressed their disappointment. They stated, “In its present form, the proposal does not meet the minimum conditions for a credible COP outcome.” They emphasized the need for a solid roadmap to ensure a fair transition away from fossil fuels.
Activists shared similar sentiments. Greenpeace’s Tracy Carty lamented the absence of definitive plans for both ending deforestation and fossil fuel use, suggesting that we’re “fumbling our way in the dark while time is running out.” Bronwen Tucker from Oil Change International described the text as weak, lacking accountability for wealthier nations and vague on adaptation strategies.
David Waskow of the World Resources Institute noted that the COP presidency seemed eager to expedite the process, even as the talks typically extend longer than initially planned.
The unprecedented heat and extreme weather conditions hitting many regions worldwide underscore the urgency of addressing climate change effectively. In fact, a recent survey found that 72% of people globally view climate action as critical to their future. Without actionable plans, achieving meaningful change remains a daunting challenge.
For more on climate issues, you can explore additional insights at AP Climate Coverage.
