COP28 President Sparks Controversy with Denial of Science Behind Fossil Fuel Phase Out

Sultan Al-Jaber, the president of COP28 and CEO of Abu Dhabi National Oil Co., is facing criticism for claiming that there is "no science" behind calls for a phase out of fossil fuels. His remarks have been described as "farcical" and verging on climate denial. Scientists and advocates argue that a fossil fuel phase out is crucial for the success of the U.N. climate conference. Al-Jaber's appointment as COP28 president has been controversial due to his role in the oil industry. The debate over the future of fossil fuel rules and the language of the final agreement is ongoing.