Small island nations, often the first to be affected by the devastating effects of climate change, became key players at COP28. Their main objective is to limit global warming to below 1.5°C, a threshold vital to their survival.
Climate Challenges in the Small Islands
Faced with hurricanes and rising oceans, these nations are acutely aware of the consequences of climate change. Their precarious situation pushed them to the forefront of the adoption of the Paris Agreement in 2015.
The Vulnerability of the Small Islands
The vulnerability of small islands to climate change is palpable. Some, like Tuvalu, are even threatened with extinction, prompting countries like Australia to offer climate asylum to their inhabitants.
Fossil Energy Negotiations at COP28
At the heart of the negotiations in Dubai, the future of fossil fuels is a hot topic. The small island nations, supported by other groups and the European Union, are calling for a clear exit from oil, gas and coal.
The position of oil-producing countries
Although some members of the Aosis group exploit hydrocarbons, they call on the major producing nations to lead the way out of fossil fuels, stressing that efforts must be global and concerted.
The Challenges of Current Negotiations
Current negotiations at COP28 are revealing divergences, with some countries preferring a simple “reduction” in fossil fuels. Small island nations, however, insist on the need for a complete exit to ensure the planet’s survival.
COP28 highlights the urgency and importance of the demands of small island nations. Their fight to limit global warming and move away from fossil fuels is not only a matter of survival for them, but also a global imperative for the future of the planet.
