COP28 is expected to produce a new plan for taking action on climate change

The upcoming Cop28 summit in the United Arab Emirates could produce a new global strategy to mitigate the worst effects of climate change, according to diplomats. A new “road map” could set out a way forward in transitioning to clean energy and supporting vulnerable countries in preparing for disasters. While specific proposals, such as setting a renewable energy target for the world, are to be negotiated in the coming months, the idea of a “transformational road map” has already been welcomed by diplomats.

Scientists warn that time is running out to keep global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Any higher than that and parts of the world, such as islands, rainforests, and polar and mountain regions, may no longer be able to adapt. However, the 1.5°C target can still be met with drastic action this decade, according to scientists. Diplomats want to use global climate talks, including a potential road map at Cop28, to respond to these findings.

A Cop28 road map could also explore ways for countries to adapt to climate change that may no longer be stopped. Ideas include a “comprehensive risk management” for climate-related hazards such as floods and drought, reforming the international financial system to make it easier for developing countries to raise money and strengthening the role of the private sector. Diplomats “stressed the need for a goal to be underpinned by instruments to support developing countries”, according to a summary of the Berlin talks published by Germany and the UAE.

A road map could also look at compensating countries already affected by climate disasters, known as “loss and damage” in UN jargon. Ideas for this include raising money for a loss-and-damage fund with levies on international shipping or aviation. Germany has said that the promise made in 2009 to arrange $100 billion of annual climate funds for developing countries could finally be within reach. The talks on a road map are set to continue at G7 and G20 summits, the UN General Assembly, and other meetings in the run-up to Cop28, which begins in Dubai on November 30.