What happened?

The 28th UN Conference of Parties in Dubai is close to a breakthrough in reducing greenhouse gases. Over 80 countries are pushing for a comprehensive agreement to phase out all CO₂-emitting fossil fuels.

During the first week, the UAE achieved progress by operationalising the ‘Loss and Damage Fund’ to aid developing countries in recovering financially from climate disasters. Additionally, 118 nations have pledged to triple their renewable energy capacity by 2030, but India and China refrained from joining.

Why does it matter?

COP 28 marks the first Global Stocktake (GST) exercise under the 2015 Paris climate agreement. It will assess progress towards the treaty's goals of limiting global temperature rise to "well below" 2°C and striving for 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. That's a critical limit for avoiding severe heat, floods, drought, etc. Earth has already warmed by about 1.2°C.

Despite causing climate change, fossil fuels provide about 80% of global energy. Thus, COP 26 in 2021 saw the first formal debate on their future, only pledging to "phase down" coal.

Sultan Al Jaber, COP 28 President, and CEO of the 12th largest oil company, also faced accusations of promoting his company's interests ahead of the conference.

What are the arguments from both sides?

Side 1: Against the elimination of fossil fuels

Russia and Saudi Arabia are urging their oil-producing allies to reject a proposed deal to phase out fossil fuels. OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) also argues that the world needs significant investments in all energy sources, including hydrocarbons.

Some African representatives say they could support a phase-out deal if less wealthy countries get more time to shift to clean energy, while richer ones move faster due to past resource exploitation. China and India resist cutting their planned development, insisting on a phase-down rather than a phase-out, as India emphasised in Glasgow.

Uganda's energy minister said, "To tell Uganda to stop fossil fuels is an insult. It's like you are telling Uganda to stay in poverty."

Another issue is whether the deal should permit continued consumption with the condition of capturing, storing or "abating" CO₂ emissions.

Side 2:  In favour of the elimination of fossil fuels

Scientists and activists emphasise a quick shift from oil, gas, and coal, warning of severe consequences. The Biden administration introduced rules targeting US oil and gas industry methane emissions. The US, UK, France, Ghana, UAE, and 17 others committed to tripling nuclear energy capacity by 2050, deeming it crucial for near-zero carbon emissions.

Dr Friederike Otto highlights the benefits of transitioning to a fossil-free world, stressing that the UN's sustainable development goals are unattainable in current high-emission economies. European nations also demand strong safeguards against carbon capture loopholes, enabling business as usual.

What's next?

GST will propose course correction in policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Mr Jaber has promised this summit will "take a new road" and be "transformational".

COP 28 might acknowledge the need to phase down fossil fuels, a notable development after three decades of no mention. However, the specifics and schedules will require further intense negotiations.

Dose of Positivity

SECL's green makeover in Chhattisgarh

Coal India's subsidiary, South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), is trying to make Chhattisgarh's coal belt greener. Their strategy involves employing the Miyawaki method, pioneered by Japanese botanist Mr. Akira Miyawaki.

The plants chosen for Miyawaki are usually low-maintenance, tough, and can handle harsh weather without much water. They grow quickly, creating lots of green cover in a short time.

The project's focal point is the Gevra mine, the country's largest coal mine, where approximately 20,000 saplings will be planted. The chosen indigenous species, including fruit-bearing and ornamental trees, promise to benefit local communities and wildlife. Furthermore, the newly formed forest will be crucial in dust particle absorption and surface temperature regulation.

SECL has a commendable track record, having planted over three crore saplings since its inception. This year alone, the company brought 475 hectares of land under green cover, planting 10.77 lakh saplings – the highest among all Coal India subsidiaries.

Notably, SECL recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh for a comprehensive plantation program spanning five years. This collaboration emphasizes SECL's commitment to sustainable environmental practices and afforestation.

Bonus section

Use "Chesterton’s Fence" to make smarter decisions

Chesterton's Fence is the idea that if you do not know what something does, be super careful before getting rid of it. It's not just about thinking about what happens next, but also what happens after that!

Jeff Bezos talks about Type 1 and Type 2 decisions. Type 1 decisions are important choices that are nearly impossible to undo. For these, take it slow, ask others, and really think it through. Type 2 decisions are more fixable ones; you can come back from them. When making any decision, ask yourself: Is it Type 1 or Type 2? If it's Type 1, understand all the nuances to the situation.

You know those no-parking zones? They are not there for no reason. They keep traffic flowing, safe, and accessible.

And no, Chesterton's Fence isn't about saying improvements are wrong. It's about thinking twice before jumping in. Sometimes, what seems useless has a purpose. So, ask why, ask how? Before changing things, be sure you know what you're doing, or you might make things worse. Simple!

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