As COP28 nears its end in Dubai, United Nations Secretary General, Antonio Gueterres, has emphasised the need for the Global Stock Take to offer a clear plan on tripling of renewable energy capacity, doubling of energy efficiency and the equitable phase out of fossil fuels.
Meanwhile, African climate activists are reiterating calls for leaders and decision makers at the climate talks to hold the line and deliver on decisive climate action in a manner that reflects the urgency and scale of the climate crisis.
As Africa is the most climate-vulnerable continent, COP28 is said to present an opportunity to reignite hope for a liveable future for communities grappling with extreme weather events that are increasing in intensity and frequency.
Environment watchdog, 350.org, has been calling for a binding energy package in which parties agree to tripling of renewable energy capacity by 2030, doubling of energy efficiency by 2030 and phase out of all fossil fuels by 2050.
Landry Ninteretse – Regional Director, 350Africa.org, said: “We have seen some commendable strides made at COP28 so far, such as the operationalization of the Loss and damage fund and support for the tripling of renewable capacity. It is now time for leaders to squarely address the elephant in the room – the primary cause of the climate crisis – fossil fuels. In addition to scaling up renewable energy capacity, a fast and fair phaseout of fossil fuels is necessary to limit global heating to 1.5 degrees Celsius and avert the worst impacts of climate change.
“The choice between whether or not to commit to the phase out of fossil fuels is not one at all – it’s an illusion of choice. If that isn’t included in the final text, this COP will be remembered as a victory of petrostates and carbon colonialists that have deliberately ignored once again the suffering and injustices of hundreds of millions in various parts of Africa.
Portia Adu-Mensah, National Coordinator Ghana Reducing our Carbon, said: “As our communities are ravaged by climate breakdown, the Africa Group of Negotiators recently underscored the importance of adaptation as a critical component in the implementation of the Paris agreement. We reiterate calls for funds to help African nations build resilience against the adverse effects of the climate crisis and mechanisms to deliver climate finance under favourable conditions.
“Additionally, we urge our leaders to maintain a strong stance on renewables and be categorical in the call to phase out fossils. As we gear up for the conclusion of COP28, we can’t afford weak measures or compromises that jeopardise the very survival of communities.”
