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The draft text for the COP28 climate deal, released by the United Arab Emirates' presidency of the summit, has faced criticism for not including a phaseout of fossil fuels. Major players, including the U.S., European Union, and climate-vulnerable countries, expressed frustration over the omission, while oil-producing countries disagreed. Scientists emphasize that fossil fuels are the primary contributor to climate change. The burning of coal, oil, and gas accounts for over three-quarters of global greenhouse gas emissions. Calls for a phaseout aimed to signal the beginning of the end of the fossil fuel era. COP28 President Sultan al Jaber faced backlash for dismissing the science behind the phaseout, but later clarified his team's belief in and respect for the science. The draft document outlined options for emissions reduction, including achieving net-zero by 2050. However, critics argue that the draft lacks urgency and misleads by suggesting that fossil fuels can continue to play a significant role in the future.
The draft of the core agreement for the COP28 climate summit has removed the call to phase out fossil fuels, angering climate advocates who warn that the summit could be on the verge of failure. The draft includes vague language on fossil fuels and lacks concrete timelines, leading to criticism from experts and observers. While over 100 countries initially supported language to phase out fossil fuels, oil-producing nations opposed the measure. Negotiators may need to return to debate if the current draft does not receive widespread support.
Sultan Al Jaber, the Emirati oil executive leading the COP28 climate summit, faced backlash for stating that there is "no science" supporting the phaseout of fossil fuels to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Many diplomats and scientists argue that phasing out fossil fuels is necessary to achieve this goal. Former Vice President Al Gore criticized Al Jaber, accusing him of preparing for an aggressive expansion of fossil fuel production. Al Jaber defended himself, claiming his comments were taken out of context and that he has repeatedly called for a phaseout of fossil fuels. The fossil fuel industry suggests carbon capture and storage as a solution, but experts say these technologies are not sufficient to avoid the worst impacts of climate change.
The president of the COP28 climate summit, Sultan Al Jaber, has alarmed scientists and advocates by claiming that there is "no science" supporting the need to phase out fossil fuels to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. This statement contradicts scientific reports that emphasize the urgent need to rapidly reduce fossil fuel use to achieve the goals of the Paris climate agreement. Al Jaber's remarks have been criticized by climate experts, who argue that a phase-out of fossil fuels is essential to combat the climate crisis.
McDonald's is "phasing out" three items from its McCafé Bakery menu in the U.S. based on customer interest. The items being discontinued are the Apple Fritter, Blueberry Muffin, and Cinnamon Roll with Cream Cheese Icing. These were the only remaining offerings on the McCafé Bakery menu. McDonald's introduced the McCafé Bakery lineup in October 2020, but a spokesperson did not comment on any future plans for the category. Customers are directed to other sweets on the non-McCafé McDonald's menu.