The Fossil Fuel VIPs at COP29
Controversy surrounded Day 5 of COP29 as it was revealed that at least 132 oil and gas executives were granted “host country” badges by Azerbaijan, the summit’s host. This includes high-profile names like Amin Nasser, CEO of Saudi Aramco, and executives from companies like BP, ExxonMobil, and ACWA Power. These invitations provide what critics call “red carpet treatment” for fossil fuel interests at a climate summit.
The Kick Big Polluters Out coalition reports that 1,773 fossil fuel lobbyists have access to COP29, outnumbering most national delegations. Campaigners argue this undermines meaningful climate action.
Growing Calls for COP Reform
Senior climate advocates and organisations are pushing for COP reform to exclude fossil fuel lobbyists. UK Green Party co-leader Carla Denyer MP stressed that COP must move from agreements to implementation, focusing on holding governments accountable and supporting adaptation efforts for the most vulnerable. Denyer warned that the fossil fuel lobby is derailing critical progress and called for a stronger representation of Global South nations and indigenous communities.
Methane Emissions in the Spotlight
Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, took centre stage during discussions. A report from Carbon Tracker highlighted the gaps in major oil and gas companies’ commitments to reducing methane emissions. While companies pledge to curb routine flaring by 2030, this only addresses a fraction of the problem. The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) revealed that over 1,200 major methane leaks were reported to companies in the last 18 months, but only 15 were addressed.
Encouragingly, a significant gas leak in Algeria was fixed within weeks of notification, showing that satellite tracking and simple repairs (“a guy with a wrench,” as one expert put it) can be effective solutions.
Tensions Over Climate Finance
Climate finance remains a contentious issue at COP29. Developed nations are under pressure to fulfil their promises, while China has resisted calls to contribute more, instead urging wealthier countries to lead. Some experts propose leveraging China’s expertise in low-carbon technology to support energy transitions in developing countries, balancing its role in climate finance without renegotiating existing agreements.
Day 5 highlighted both progress and challenges at COP29. While methane mitigation and satellite tracking offer hope, the heavy presence of fossil fuel interests and unresolved financial divides underscore the need for reforms to ensure COP remains a credible forum for climate action.
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