COP28 aimed to draw political conclusions from the first global stocktake under the Paris Agreement, evaluate collective efforts to reduce emissions and build resilience, and give guidance to strengthen climate action in this critical decade.
On the plus side, agreements were reached to put meat on the bones of the global goal for adaptation. A framework outlining seven sector-specific targets was adopted to help channel support to vulnerable communities worldwide.
There was also a breakthrough in establishing loss and damage finance for nations reeling from intensifying climate impacts. The new fund was officially launched with initial pledges and operating rules in place.
Developed economies were urged to finally deliver on the long-promised $100 billion in annual climate finance for developing nations. Adaptation funds in particular require scaling up, as impacts intensify in vulnerable regions. Developing nations expressed misgivings about conditionalities attached or influence over financial flows.
Moreover, the talks delivered an "energy package" containing significant benchmarks. This included commitments to triple renewable energy, double efficiency gains, and transition away from fossil fuels by 2050 - putting numbers behind the rhetoric of transition.
However, environmental groups lamented loopholes and noted the language stopped short of a full phase-out of coal, oil and gas. They warned implementation will be key, as past "world firsts" have arguably paved the way for global emissions to continue rising.
Final language around the crucial issue of phasing down fossil fuels was seen as a compromise that lacked the specifics demanded by climate scientists. It disappointed those seeking a clear signal on the planned transition away from coal, oil and gas.
Furthermore, while progress was acknowledged, adoption and resilience-building remain chronically underfunded. Developing nations stressed finance as the lever to raise their climate ambitions in this crucial decade.
The UAE claimed victory as COP host for the collaborative spirit and major decisions reached over two weeks of intensive negotiations. However, civil society groups criticized limited participation opportunities.
International dynamics showed signs of improved cooperation between some traditional rivals. However, intransigent opposition to certain provisions remained from fossil fuel-dependent economies like Saudi Arabia.
Looking ahead, all acknowledged much work is still needed. Scientists implored leaders to match the new political decisions with far more rigorous plans and policies aligned with halving global emissions by 2030. The integrity of the 1.5C goal depends on the speed and depth of the response.
Concerns were raised that Azerbaijan's upcoming COP presidency in 2024 could restrict participation, given its dependence on oil money and mixed human rights record. Ensuring inclusion will be a priority.
