Reacting to the agreement reached today at COP28, Environmental
Audit Committee Chair, Rt Hon MP, said:
“The penny has dropped at COP and all nations have agreed to move
away from fossil fuels and to phase down the use of unabated coal
power. While it’s disappointing there was not agreement to phase
out fossil fuels, the final agreement recognises that the days of
oil, gas and coal powering global economies are numbered. The
world has agreed to transition to a decarbonised global economy.
“As the Committee made clear in its report on accelerating the
transition from fossil fuels, the UK must approach the low carbon
future with enthusiasm and unwavering commitment. By switching
off fossil fuels at the current time we risk energy instability:
so every effort must now be made to find reliable low carbon
energy and effective energy storage to keep the lights on
throughout the year. This is critical for the UK to do its part
in keeping global temperatures below 1.5 degrees C.
“I would like to pay tribute to the UK delegation that has worked
tirelessly with partners to reach agreement: the first such COP
agreement where all nations have agreed a transition away from
all fossil fuels.
"Now all nations must put their words into action. I am
encouraged to note the agreements between the UAE Presidency and
Brazil which will establish a framework for deeper global
cooperation on climate and nature issues in preparation for COP30
in Belem in 2025.”
Notes to editors:
- The Committee’s report ‘Accelerating the transition from
fossil fuels and securing energy supplies’ can be found on the
website.
