COP28: Fossil Fuel Fight, Net Zero Charter, Global Warming Compensation Fund, and Controversies - A Chance to Put Global South at Center

The fight over the future of fossil fuels has taken center stage at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai. Many participants believe the talks can only be considered a success if they result in a deal to "phase out" all fossil fuels. The language of the final agreement, expected by December 12, will be closely monitored, as a "phase out" commitment would require a shift away from fossil fuels until their use is eliminated. However, there is debate over whether the agreement should focus on "abated" fossil fuels or include "unabated" ones. Russia and the United Arab Emirates have expressed opposition to a phase-out, while Big Oil is pushing for a shift of focus towards reducing emissions. The COP27 conference last year saw support for a fossil fuel phase-out commitment, but it ultimately failed to gain enough support. The U.N. Secretary-General emphasized the need to phase out all fossil fuels to prevent the worst effects of the climate crisis.