Contrary to Sultan Al Jaber’s claim at COP28, ample scientific evidence supports the necessity of phasing out fossil fuels to limit global heating to 1.5°C. Existing studies underscore the urgency, emphasising substantial declines in coal, oil, and gas production by 2050.

Critics argued that having oil and gas producers lead climate talks raised a conflict of interest, given the industry’s role in carbon emissions. Indeed, the UAE is reportedly planning to increase oil production and has been accused of flaring more gas than reported.

The last time methane in the air rose so fast, Greenland warmed by 10°C within decades. Methane levels in the atmosphere are now rising fast, similar to past climate changes. This could lead to a ‘termination-level transition’ and make it harder to limit global warming.

Keir Starmer pledges to end new UK oil and gas exploration – an expert’s take on why this is the right move.

The ex-cabinet minister’s comments have been described as a ‘damning indictment’ of the Conservative government.

Jo Maugham, Director of the Good Law Project, is leading the way in advocating for a future free from fossil fuel interests. Along with 120 other legal professionals, he has signed a Declaration of Conscience to take a stand against representing organizations with ties to the fossil fuel industry.

Given how little the COP conferences have achieved since they began in 1995 – not to mention their gigantic carbon footprints – it is time to end this spectacle of private jets flying in dignitaries and delegates to discuss the climate emergency.