COP 27 - One step forward on Loss and Damage, two steps back on oil and gas
The COP 27 conference has been yet another failure, according to the Scottish Greens. This comes as the summit closed with representatives negotiating an agreement that does not go anywhere near far enough to keep the world safe.
The Scottish Greens climate spokesperson, Mark Ruskell MSP, said:
"This is far too little and far too late. There has been one step forward on loss and damages but two steps back on oil and gas.
"The climate crisis is already a matter of life and death for millions of people around the world. After decades of denial, the first meaningful step has been taken to support those who are suffering the most, although actual funds remain largely empty.
"However, the lack of any 'phase out’ or even a ‘phase down’ of all fossil fuels means that ultimately COP 27 will be remembered as yet another monumental failure. The bill for loss and damage will become unpayable unless fossil fuel burning states, including the UK, tackle the causes and phase out oil and gas alongside coal.
"Once again, leaders have talked a good game but failed where it matters. The influence of an unprecedented number of oil and gas lobbyists at COP 27 is clear in the final text. Big oil continues to hold the world to ransom.
"Words are not enough. We need meaningful and robust actions and agreements between governments who truly recognise the scale of the crisis and are genuinely committed to the transformation that is needed. That must mean ending new oil and gas exploration and a fast but fair phase out of fossil fuels.
"Instead we have climate-wrecking governments like the one in Westminster who are happy to double down on drilling while the world is burning. Countries must use the next year to build up a route map for a just transition away from oil and gas. The Scottish Government has a critical opportunity to begin this through its energy strategy next month and should join the Beyond Oil and Gas Alliance without further delay.
“We can't go on like this. We don't have any more time for failed summits. We can't keep bringing leaders, diplomats and scientists together every year and failing to make the changes that are needed. Our future, and the future of our planet, is far too important for that.”