Climate activists at COP28 staged a sit-down protest at the OPEC pavilion, advocating for a clear stance on fossil fuel phaseout from the COP presidency. This action was prompted by a controversial letter from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), urging its members to reject any COP28 agreement mentioning the reduction of fossil fuels.
Cansın Leylim, the Associate Director of Global Campaigns at 350.org, emphasized the significance of this demand, stating, “OPEC’s resistance to a fossil fuel phaseout reveals their apprehension towards a changing tide.” Leylim highlighted that amidst discussions involving 106 nations advocating for a swift decline in fossil fuel usage, the draft text of the Global Stocktake offers hope with several options for a phaseout. The focus, however, is on COP28’s presidency and its alignment with either a just transition or the interests of the oil industry.
Peri Dias, a representative from Latin America at COP28, drew attention to Brazil’s delicate balancing act. Despite projecting itself as a climate leader internationally, Brazil’s recent participation in the OPEC+ group and the revelation of OPEC’s call to reject a fossil fuel phaseout at COP28 have raised concerns.
Dias emphasized the double standard, stating, “Brazil’s hesitation to leave fossil fuels in the past undermines the country’s potential for global environmental leadership.” This sentiment is particularly pertinent in light of President Lula’s efforts to curb deforestation and strengthen environmental enforcement agencies.
Calling for a more assertive role from Brazil, Dias highlighted the need for the country to advocate for a final COP28 text explicitly mentioning a fast, funded, and full phaseout of fossil fuels. The article suggests that COP30 could be a crucial opportunity for Brazil to shine globally if it advocates for strong outcomes at COP28. Failure to do so may jeopardize the possibility of achieving historic advances at the COP in Brazil in 2025.
The sit-down protest by activists at the OPEC pavilion serves as a reminder that the fight against climate change requires bold action and unwavering commitment. As the world observes COP28, the spotlight remains on leaders and negotiators to prioritize the planet’s future over the interests of the fossil fuel industry
