URGENT UPDATE: 350.org has issued a stark warning following the release of the second draft decisions from COP30, stating that the texts are insufficient to address the urgent need for a fossil fuel phaseout and robust climate finance. This announcement, made earlier today in Belém, highlights a critical moment as global momentum for a comprehensive fossil fuel phaseout roadmap accelerates.
According to Andreas Sieber, Associate Director of Policy and Campaigns at 350.org, “This morning’s draft COP30 decisions fall far short of the giant leap needed to close the climate ambition gap.” He emphasizes the lack of a clear plan to phase out fossil fuels, stating that while the newly proposed Just Transition Mechanism represents a significant achievement, it cannot substitute for a definitive strategy to end reliance on coal, oil, and gas.
The urgency of this situation is palpable. With over 80 countries publicly supporting a Transition Away from Fossil Fuels Roadmap (TAFF), the failure of the draft to acknowledge fossil fuel phaseout raises serious concerns. Sieber points out that the texts still rely on weak voluntary initiatives, which do not adequately address the realities of climate impact faced by vulnerable communities worldwide.
Fenton Lutunatabua, 350.org Pacific Team Lead, added, “We’re walking a fine line here between survival and climate catastrophe.” He stressed that the current draft does not even mention a plan to end fossil fuels, casting a shadow over the negotiations. Lutunatabua called for immediate action, stating, “We can’t achieve justice on the cheap,” as communities urgently need the promised finance to adapt to climate impacts.
The draft also shows a weakened commitment to triple adaptation finance, lacking a clear responsibility and delivery plan for the new collective quantified goal (NCQG). It omits crucial details about innovative financing, direct access for Indigenous Peoples, and has even removed references to ending inefficient fossil fuel subsidies.
The urgency of the COP30 negotiations cannot be overstated. With the clock ticking, 350.org is calling on all parties to align with global momentum and deliver an outcome that is just, equitable, and informed by climate science. Without a comprehensive package that includes finance, adaptation, and a fossil fuel transition roadmap, the COP30 deal risks being ineffective.
As COP30 progresses, stakeholders and advocates urge decision-makers to recognize the critical need for immediate and decisive action. The world is watching, and communities affected by climate change are counting on leaders to prioritize their futures.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.
