12 | The final agreement unwrapped – 'Beginning of the end' for fossil fuels
Dec 13, 2023
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Nearly 200 countries agree to transition away from fossil fuels in the final COP28 agreement. The hosts discuss outcomes, business developments, and announce the listener quiz winner. Reflections on Dubai and memorable interviews. Key points and debates on transitioning away from fossil fuels. Exploring systems change and interconnectedness of energy, food, and health systems. Implementing net zero strategies and the role of governments. Announcement of quiz winner and reflections on COP28.
Transitioning away from fossil fuels was a key point in the final global stock take deal at COP28, with nations urged to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies.
The COP28 aftermath emphasized the need for action and system-wide transformations in energy, food, and health, while highlighting the urgency for faster progress in addressing climate change.
Deep dives
Mixed Bag of Outcomes at COP28
The podcast episode covered the final global stock take deal at COP28, highlighting both positive and negative aspects. The transition away from fossil fuels was a key point in the agreement, with nations called upon to phase out all inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. The inclusion of low carbon hydrogen production and the use of technologies like carbon capture in hard-to-abate sectors were also mentioned. However, there were concerns about the lack of specific objectives and weak wording in the adaptation and finance sections. The episode also discussed the COP28 aftermath, touching on the need for action and system-wide transformations in energy, food, and health. While the overall outcome was seen as a step forward, the urgency for faster progress was emphasized.
Reflecting on COP28 Highlights
The podcast hosts shared their personal highlights from COP28. The opening day was mentioned as an optimistic start, particularly with the establishment of the loss and damage fund and the operationalization of the Santiago loss and damage network. The mobilization of five billion through the first business and philanthropy climate forum was also celebrated. However, a sense of frustration was expressed regarding the slow pace of negotiations and the limitations of the COP process. The importance of focusing on net-zero strategies and designing actions that deliver multiple benefits across various systems, such as health and food, was highlighted as a way for sustainability professionals to make meaningful progress.
Challenges and Opportunities for the UK
The UK's leadership on climate action was discussed, with a mixed assessment provided. While the commitment to the loss and damage fund and integrated approaches to climate and health were appreciated, concerns were raised about the politicization of the net-zero agenda. The need for robust net-zero targets and alignment with ambitious goals was emphasized for businesses. It was acknowledged that strong government policies are helpful, but progress can still be made without relying solely on government leadership. The importance of taking time off to rest and reenergize during the Christmas break was also encouraged.
Reflections on COP28 Activism and the Green Zone
Reflections on COP28 included a discussion on the level of climate activism and protests during the summit. There was a sense of disappointment regarding the restrictions and lack of a strong right to protest. On the positive side, the podcast hosts praised the Green Zone as a vibrant space for discussion, connection, and learning. The Green Zone's setup with rooms for discussion, outdoor stages, and workshops was seen as a good balance. The wealth of special guest interviews conducted in the Green Zone was also highlighted. The importance of upholding the right to protest and the positive impact of the Green Zone on fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing was underscored.
We have a deal! After nearly 200 countries agree to "transition away from fossil fuels", Luke, Matt and Sarah re-unite in the UK to unpack the final agreement and reflect on the highs, lows and in-betweens of COP28, including a live special guest to close out the series.
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