COP 28 stands as a pivotal moment in the global effort to address climate change, where nations converge to chart a definitive roadmap for climate action. As the twenty-eighth Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), this gathering signifies a critical juncture in our collective commitment to mitigate the impacts of climate change and pave the way for a sustainable future. Against a backdrop of escalating environmental challenges and mounting calls for decisive action, COP 28 serves as a beacon of hope, offering an opportunity for world leaders, policymakers, scientists, and activists to collaboratively shape policies, set targets, and forge alliances aimed at curbing greenhouse gas emissions, safeguarding ecosystems, and fostering resilience in the face of a rapidly changing climate. With the urgency of the climate crisis increasingly evident, the discussions and agreements reached at COP 28 are poised to influence global agendas, catalyze innovation, and galvanize concerted efforts toward a greener, more equitable world.
Tags: GS Paper – 3, Environmental Pollution & Degradation- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), GS Paper – 2, Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India’s Interests
For Prelims: Conference of Parties (COP-28), United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Paris Agreement, Global Stocktake, Global Goal on Adaptation
For Mains: About COPs, Key Outcomes of COP 28, Key Concerns and Way Forward
Context:
- The 28th Conference of Parties (COP-28) and the urgency of addressing these issues to fulfill commitments and combat climate change effectively.
- The 28th Conference of Parties (COP-28) convened in Dubai, UAE, where delegates from 197 nations showcased their plans to combat global warming and deliberated on future climate actions.
- From the conference emerged both progress and setbacks, representing a significant advancement post-Paris Agreement.
- While some celebrate it as the dawn of the post-fossil fuel era, concerns linger over inadequate adaptation measures and critical gaps in mitigation strategies.
Conference of Parties:
- COPs, which are held under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), a treaty formed in 1992.
- At these gatherings, participating countries (Parties) assess global efforts in line with the primary objective of the Paris Agreement: limiting global warming to around 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels.
- The COPs function as the principal decision-making entity of the UNFCCC, where resolutions and decisions concerning various aspects of climate action, including mitigation, adaptation, finance, technology, and transparency, are adopted.
The Key Outcomes of COP 28 (2023):
- Global Stocktake Text: Established under the Paris Agreement in 2015, the proposal outlines eight steps to maintain the global temperature rise within the 1.5 degrees Celsius target. By 2030, it advocates for tripling renewable energy capacity , reduction of non-CO2 emissions, and doubling the global average annual rate of energy efficiency improvements.
- Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels: COP28 emphasises transitioning away from fossil fuels in energy systems, aiming for a just, orderly, and equitable process, with the goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
- Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA): The global adaptation goal focuses on enhancing adaptive capabilities and minimising vulnerability for sustainable development. The integration of explicit 2030 targets for water security, ecosystem restoration, and health is a positive development.
- Climate Finance: Wealthy nations owe developing countries an estimated USD 500 billion in 2025 under the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) for climate finance, according to UNCTAD. Efforts are underway to set a new collective quantified goal before 2025, starting with a floor of USD 100 billion annually, with allocations for mitigation, adaptation, and loss and damage.
- Loss and Damage Fund:Member countries have agreed to operationalize the Loss and Damage (L&D) fund to compensate nations facing climate change impacts. A portion of the fund is designated for Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States, initially overseen by the World Bank.
- Global Renewables and Energy Efficiency Pledge: Signatories commit to collaborating to triple the world’s installed renewable energy generation capacity to at least 11,000 GW by 2030. Additionally, they aim to double the global average annual rate of energy efficiency improvements to over 4% each year until 2030.
- The Global Cooling Pledge for COP 28: Sixty-six national governments pledge to reduce cooling-related emissions across all sectors by at least 68% globally relative to 2022 levels by 2050.
- Declaration to Triple Nuclear Energy: The declaration launched at COP28 aims to triple global nuclear energy capacity by 2050.
The Major Engagements of India in COP 28:
- Green Credit Initiative: Designed to encourage voluntary environmental actions, the Green Credit Initiative addresses climate change challenges by issuing Green Credits for projects like reforestation on degraded lands and restoring river catchment areas to enhance natural ecosystems.
- Phase II of the Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT 2.0): This phase emphasises an inclusive and equitable industry transition, including the development and transfer of low-carbon technologies and financial support for emerging economies.
- Global River Cities Alliance (GRCA): Launched during COP 28 and spearheaded by India’s National Mission for Clean Ganga, GRCA underscores India’s commitment to sustainable river-based development and climate resilience. The alliance aims to facilitate knowledge sharing, city partnerships, and the adoption of best practices.
- Quad Climate Working Group (QCWG) on Localised Climate Action: This initiative focuses on acknowledging and enhancing the contributions of local communities and regional governments to support sustainable lifestyles.
The Key Concerns:
- No Specific Timelines for Fossil Fuel Phase-out: The agreement lacks a clear and immediate plan for phasing out fossil fuels, using ambiguous language like “transitioning away” without setting specific timelines or targets.
- No Specified Targets on Tripling of Global Renewable Energy: COP28 urges countries to contribute to tripling the global installed capacity of renewable energy and doubling annual improvements in energy efficiency.
- Varying Interpretations on Climate Finance: Climate finance data are compiled using different methodologies, leading to varying interpretations. Double counting of climate finance can inflate reported figures, as the same funds may be reported by multiple parties.
- Resistance over Phase-down of Coal: Efforts to mandate carbon capture and storage for new coal-fired power plants faced strong opposition from countries like India, China, and South Africa.
- Concerns over Methane Emission Cuts: The agreement aims to accelerate and substantially reduce methane emissions globally by 2030. However, implementing methane emission cuts, particularly in agriculture, may raise sensitivities, particularly in countries like India.
Way Forward:
- Commit to Climate Finance Targets: Ensure that all bilateral donors fulfill their climate finance commitments and set more ambitious targets for the future. Integrate climate finance into national development plans and policies to a greater extent than ever before.
- Clear Road Maps and Timelines: Develop precise and comprehensive roadmaps with specific timelines for achieving key milestones and targets. Establish interim goals that contribute to long-term objectives, fostering a sense of accountability.
- Enhanced National Action Plans (NDCs): Revise and strengthen Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to reflect more ambitious and concrete climate action targets. NDCs should encompass a wide array of sectors, including energy, transportation, agriculture, and industry.
- International Cooperation: Facilitate the transfer of climate-friendly technologies, particularly from developed to developing nations. Share experiences, lessons learned, and best practices among countries to expedite the adoption of environmentally friendly solutions across industries.
Conclusion:
Thus, COPs play a vital role in combating climate change, but the journey ahead presents both challenges and opportunities. Success hinges on collective determination, unwavering commitment, and a clear understanding of the high stakes involved. Through embracing determined efforts and fostering authentic partnerships, the global community can pave the way for a sustainable and resilient future.
UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ)
Prelims
Q:1 With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2016)
- The Agreement was signed by all the member countries of the UN, and it will go into effect in 2017.
- The Agreement aims to limit greenhouse gas emissions so that the rise in average global temperature by the end of this century does not exceed 2ºC or even 1.5ºC above pre-industrial levels.
- Developed countries acknowledged their historical responsibility in global warming and committed to donate $ 1000 billion a year from 2020 to help developing countries to cope with climate change.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- 1 and 3 only
- 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Ans: B
Mains
Q:1 Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (2021)
FAQs
Q: What is COP 28?
COP 28 refers to the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). It’s a crucial annual gathering where world leaders, negotiators, scientists, and activists come together to discuss and strategize global action on climate change.
Q: What is the significance of COP 28?
COP 28 holds immense significance as it marks another critical juncture for global efforts to combat climate change. It provides an opportunity for countries to review progress made since the Paris Agreement, set new targets, and negotiate agreements to address pressing environmental challenges.
Q: What are the key objectives of COP 28?
The primary objectives of COP 28 include:
- Advancing the implementation of the Paris Agreement commitments.
- Strengthening global cooperation to limit global temperature rise well below 2 degrees Celsius.
- Addressing adaptation, mitigation, finance, and technology transfer issues.
- Encouraging countries to enhance their nationally determined contributions (NDCs) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Promoting sustainable development and resilience to climate impacts.
Q: What outcomes are expected from COP 28?
The outcomes of COP 28 are anticipated to include:
- Agreement on enhanced emission reduction targets by participating countries.
- Commitments to ramp up financial support for climate adaptation and mitigation efforts, particularly for developing nations.
- Agreements on technology transfer and capacity-building initiatives to support climate action in vulnerable regions.
- Strengthened collaboration between governments, businesses, civil society, and other stakeholders to accelerate climate solutions.
- Increased awareness and urgency regarding the need for ambitious and immediate action to address the climate crisis.
Q: How can individuals contribute to the goals set at COP 28?
Individuals can contribute to the goals set at COP 28 by:
- Adopting sustainable lifestyle choices, such as reducing energy consumption, minimizing waste, and supporting renewable energy sources.
- Advocating for climate-conscious policies and practices within their communities, workplaces, and governments.
- Supporting organizations and initiatives that promote climate resilience, environmental conservation, and social justice.
- Educating themselves and others about the impacts of climate change and the importance of collective action.
- Participating in climate activism, whether through protests, campaigns, or grassroots movements, to amplify voices demanding urgent climate action.
