Thanks Alex Wimberly for these reflections on COP 30:
COP30 took place in Brazil in November and brought the usual disappointments, particularly on implementation, but some progress. The decisions reflected both a shared desire for global action and increasingly polarized interests. I’ve drawn on an analysis of outcomes by the International Institute for Sustainable Development to provide a brief summary.
A new Climate Finance Work Programme – This could provide a platform for political follow-up, to scale up climate finance from both public and private sources for developing countries.
Adaption Finance to Triple, Delivery Delayed – More ambitious targets but delayed from 2030 to 2035, despite worsening climate impacts.
Contested Adaptation Indicators – Unfortunately, the adopted indicators fall short of guiding countries in the process of strengthening their systems for monitoring and evaluation.
Fossil Fuel Roadmap Pushed Out – The final text on the roadmap did not reflect the call of 88 countries to transition away from fossil fuels, but it was agreed that a just transition mechanism would be developed – a key step forward in producing more action.
International Trade Talks, eg on carbon reduction and deforestation, will continue, and a Gender Action Plan, to enable gender-responsive climate action, in addition to race, age and disability, will be implemented.
What’s Next? – COP 31 will convene in Turkey, with Australia serving as the “President of Negotiations”. This innovative leadership arrangement has pledged to promote solidarity between developing and developed countries and to bring attention to the Pacific Island states. Brazil wants to keep the momentum going and promised to deliver roadmaps for deforestation and a just transition away from fossil fuels in the coming year.
As we celebrate the hope and promise that the birth of Christ brings, may they reinvigorate the perseverance of all those who strive for action on climate justice.