COP28 President Faces Backlash for Controversial Fossil Fuel Remarks

Sultan al-Jaber, the president of COP28 and CEO of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, is facing criticism for his comments on the role of fossil fuels in combating climate change. Al-Jaber stated that there is no scenario that says the phase-out of fossil fuels will achieve the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Climate scientists and environmental advocates, including former Vice President Al Gore, condemned his remarks, accusing him of prioritizing profits over the survival of human civilization. Al-Jaber's comments also put him at odds with the United Nations and its secretary-general, who emphasized the need to phase out all fossil fuels. Al-Jaber defended his remarks, stating that they were taken out of context and that he is committed to the goals of ending carbon emissions by 2050. However, concerns about his potential conflict of interest persist.