Tensions escalated during UN climate talks on Saturday as negotiations over the future of fossil fuels intensified.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) faced criticism for its efforts to prevent any mention of a phase-out in the final deal.
The discussions, characterized by a fluctuating tone between optimism and concern, aimed at finding a compromise on the fate of oil, gas, and coal.
OPEC’s Kuwaiti secretary general, Haitham Al Ghais, drew scrutiny after urging the group’s members and allies to “proactively reject” language targeting fossil fuels in favor of emissions.
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Spanish ecology transition minister Teresa Ribera condemned the move, describing it as “quite a disgusting thing” for OPEC countries to resist necessary measures.
The global objective of limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius hinges on significantly increasing renewable energy deployment while decreasing the production and consumption of fossil fuels.
The High Ambition Coalition, a diverse group of nations, criticized OPEC, emphasizing that nothing jeopardizes the prosperity and future of all people more than fossil fuels.
A third draft deal presented various options for phasing out fossil fuels, but it also included the possibility of not mentioning them in the final text.
Saudi Arabia, a prominent voice against a fossil fuel phase-out, had been resistant until this point.
The OPEC letter argued against undue pressure on fossil fuels, suggesting irreversible consequences.
While some OPEC members, like Iraq, support the resistance to targeting fossil fuels, others, such as the United Arab Emirates, have taken a more conciliatory stance, acknowledging an inevitable phase-down.
The critical stage of negotiations is approaching, with ministers working to find common ground by the end of the summit.
Despite concerns about the pace of talks, there is confidence that the final text will address the crucial issue of fossil fuels.
The Alliance of Small Island States emphasized the urgency of a fossil fuel phase-out, highlighting the threat climate change poses to their nations.
As tensions persist, global leaders are urged to prioritize a stronger commitment to fossil fuel phase-out for a sustainable future.
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