We are entering the final phase of this COP – and are mind-blown. Not by the swift and impeccable logistics in the Dubai COP venue, but by the slow progress made on multiple negotiation tracks and the amount of work still ahead if COP28 is to result in a successful outcome.
Let us look at the Mitigation Work Programme (WMP) for example. After one week of negotiations, Parties have merely produced a text, without any real substance on mitigation. ECO wants to remind everyone why this is a problem: The MWP is the space in the negotiations where Parties agree on actionable steps to “urgently scale up mitigation ambition” in line with the objectives of the Paris Agreement. Looking at the extent of the climate crisis around us and the gloomy scientific outlooks on where we are heading, moving at a snails pace on such a critical issue should be out of the question.
As said, the current text is very slim and mainly repeats existing language. It leaves A LOT to be desired still: Parties need to make sure they deliver on the 1.5°C target which means collectively reducing global emissions by 43% by 2030 and 60% by 2035, while recognising the principles of the highest possible ambition, equity and best and latest available science. For this, Parties have at hand the annual report on the Global Dialogues. ECO asks you to do your job and use this report to scrape out emerging barriers and solutions, such as for example the unequal cost of capital, a major barrier for a just energy transition!
There also needs to be clear language on the link with the energy package in the Global Stocktake and a translation to what that means in terms of commitments for means of implementation.
ECO asks all parties to remember why we are sitting together. We want to urgently upscale mitigation action. It is high time that you step up and engage productively in the spirit of your mandate! We have to move from baby steps to elephant steps!