As the COP29 climate conference unfolds in Baku, Azerbaijan, a significant clash between fossil fuel advocacy and calls for clean energy is emerging. Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev described oil and gas as a “gift from God," defending the country’s extensive fossil fuel reserves amidst criticism of its environmental record. He rejected claims of “Western fake news” regarding Azerbaijan’s emissions, emphasizing that nations should not be penalized for possessing natural resources.
Aliyev pointed out that Azerbaijan contributes only 0.1% to global gas emissions, arguing that countries should not be blamed for utilizing their resources to meet market demands.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres voiced strong opposition to the continued reliance on fossil fuels, labeling it “absurd." He asserted that the “clean energy revolution” is inescapable and urged governments to embrace it. Guterres highlighted the urgency of climate action, stating that time is running out to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
“The sound you hear is the ticking clock,” Guterres warned, referring to the imminent threats posed by climate change. He described 2024 as a potential “masterclass in climate destruction," exacerbated by human activity.
The backdrop of COP29 has raised eyebrows due to its host nation’s history with oil and gas production. Concerns have been voiced about Azerbaijani officials potentially using the conference as a platform to attract investments for their national oil and gas company.
With developing nations advocating for substantial financial support, discussions at COP29 are increasingly focusing on securing funds necessary for implementing climate strategies. There are calls for wealthy countries to collectively contribute towards a fund potentially totaling $1 trillion.
Roger Baro, Burkina Faso’s environment minister, underscored the pressing need for financial assistance to combat severe impacts of climate change in his country, which has faced extreme weather events this year.
“More cash is essential,” Baro stated, emphasizing that without it, poorer nations struggle to address ongoing crises linked to climate change.
Despite concerns about Azerbaijan’s leadership at COP29, the underlying objective remains focused on enhancing global cooperation to support vulnerable countries in their climate initiatives. The conference will continue through November 22, with participants hopeful for meaningful agreements despite the complex challenges ahead.
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