Climate Talks in Turmoil: Controversy, Unabated Fossil Fuels, and Conflict of Interest Surround COP28

As the first week of the COP28 climate talks comes to an end, concerns are growing over whether countries will take action on the main cause of the climate crisis: fossil fuels. Controversy surrounds the summit's president, Sultan Al Jaber, who recently made remarks questioning the science behind phasing out fossil fuels. The comments have raised doubts about the negotiations and their focus on addressing the urgent need for climate action. The latest draft of the summit's key agreement includes options for a phase-out, phase-down, or omission of language on fossil fuels. Countries are deeply divided on the issue, with the US, China, and Saudi Arabia requesting numerous changes to the draft. The controversy may shed light on the influence of Al Jaber and could potentially lead to positive outcomes by putting the spotlight on the fossil fuel industry.