Global Pledge Aims for Cleaner Energy, but Critics Skept
Around 100 countries and 50 major oil and gas companies, including Saudi Arabia’s Aramco, have pledged to triple the use of renewable energy by 2030 and halt the addition of planet-warming gases by 2050.
However, critics argue that the commitment only addresses emissions from production and lacks measures to limit fossil fuel consumption effectively.
The pledge aims to remove fossil fuels from the world’s energy system by 2050. Notably, the promises are not legally binding, and there are no penalties for failing to meet targets.
While this pledge is hailed as a positive step, skepticism remains about its impact. Critics emphasize the need for a more comprehensive approach, urging the oil and gas sector to transition away from production entirely.
Many of the companies involved had previously announced emission reduction goals, and some flexibility in short-term production increases is allowed. The absence of penalties for non-compliance raises questions about the enforceability of these commitments.
The COP28 summit aims to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, a goal set in 2015. The pledge, though seen as a positive move, is viewed by some as insufficient to achieve the necessary decarbonization.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasizes the urgency of tripling renewables capacity and doubling energy efficiency by 2030.
The host, UAE, has faced criticism due to its significant role in oil and gas production, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
Original news source: BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-67599925