How do you broker UN climate talks when your own country is a big coal and gas exporter? Chris Bowen is about to find out
Ahead of Cop31, climate change minister dismisses concerns about whether Australia as a major producer can keep the world moving away from fossil fuels Listen to the podcast: Chris Bowen on how he’ll reach consensus at Cop31 Sign up for climate and environment editor Adam Morton’s free Clear Air newsletter here Australia has been urged to set aside support for its near US$100bn fossil fuel export…
Australia's climate change minister, Chris Bowen, is set to preside over UN climate talks (Cop31) in Antalya, Turkey, amid a global push for transitioning away from fossil fuels. Despite Australia being a significant exporter of coal and liquefied natural gas, Bowen dismissed concerns about its role in the negotiations, affirming that all countries are grappling with the transition.
The talks, which commence amid geopolitical tensions, aim to establish a 2035 electrification target and secure support for a global agreement to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. However, climate advocates question whether Australia, a major fossil fuel producer, can successfully drive the world towards cleaner energy sources. Critics argue that Australia's continued support for fossil fuel exports creates a conflict of interest in advocating for a global shift away from them.
The upcoming talks will focus on three key areas: minimizing overshoot past the 1.5C Paris agreement goal, providing financial assistance to poorer nations affected by climate change, and promoting electrification. While Turkey and Australia aim to reach a consensus agreement, known as a cover decision, climate experts remain skeptical, emphasizing the need for detailed transition plans from fossil fuels.
Written by urgent.news from The Guardian's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
