At the COP28 climate conference in the United Arab Emirates, a record number of fossil fuel lobbyists, totaling approximately 2,500, have been accredited. This figure significantly exceeds the 636 lobbyists registered in the previous year. This surge in lobbyist participation has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the influence of fossil fuel interests on climate negotiations, particularly as calls to end new oil, gas, and coal projects intensify.
by Janice McAllister
The 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, held in Dubai, has witnessed a notable increase in the presence of fossil fuel lobbyists. According to a report by the coalition Kick Big Polluters Out, the number of registered lobbyists from the fossil fuel sector has reached an unprecedented level of approximately 2,500. This stark increase from the 636 lobbyists registered in the previous year has brought the issue of fossil fuel influence in climate negotiations to the forefront of discussions.
The substantial presence of these lobbyists at a pivotal climate conference raises important questions about the impact and potential sway of fossil fuel interests over climate policies and decisions. The COP28 is a crucial platform where global leaders, negotiators, and stakeholders convene to address and formulate responses to the pressing challenges of climate change. However, the involvement of a significant number of representatives from industries directly linked to carbon emissions and climate change is seen by many as a conflict of interest.
This development comes at a time when there are heightened calls for urgent action to curb global warming. Environmental groups and climate activists have been advocating for an end to all new oil, gas, and coal projects as a means to limit global temperature rise and mitigate the effects of climate change. The presence of a large contingent of fossil fuel lobbyists at the talks is perceived by some as a direct challenge to these goals, potentially hindering progress towards more ambitious climate action.
The COP28 talks in Dubai are occurring during what is expected to be the hottest year on record, adding to the urgency of reaching meaningful agreements on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The involvement of a record number of fossil fuel lobbyists in these talks highlights the ongoing tension between economic interests tied to the fossil fuel industry and the global imperative to transition to a more sustainable and low-carbon future.
(Associated Medias | FAD) – All rights reserved.