7am COP30’s missing words: coal, oil and gas
Nov 24, 2025
David Ritter, the Chief Executive of Greenpeace Australia Pacific and a savvy climate policy expert, dives into the complexities of COP30. He reveals how negotiators struggled to reach a deal in Brazil, ultimately concluding without addressing fossil fuels. Ritter critiques Australia's contradictory stance on signing the Belém Declaration while still approving new coal and gas projects. He shares insights on the growing influence of the fossil fuel lobby and emphasizes urgent actions needed for real progress in combating climate change.
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On-the-Ground Atmosphere At COP30
- David Ritter described COP30 as vast and emotionally charged with thousands of attendees from almost every country.
- He said the atmosphere swung between electric, frustrated, bored and highly emotional as people reacted to false solutions and corporate capture.
Fossil Fuel Lobbying Penetrates COP
- Global Witness research found one in 25 COP participants is a fossil fuel lobbyist, showing intense industry presence.
- Ritter explained lobbyists gain access via trade associations, overflow badges and even official delegations to influence outcomes.
High Stakes: 1.5°C Breach Shapes COP30
- COP30 was the first summit after global temperatures averaged above 1.5°C for a year, raising stakes for stronger action.
- Ritter flagged it should have driven forest protection and a fossil-fuel roadmap because both are essential to averting climate collapse.