On November 21, at a She Changes Climate online event, Sultan Al Jaber, President of COP28 and CEO of Adnoc, discussed the future of fossil fuels. Confronted by Mary Robinson, he rejected the alarmist rhetoric, asserting that getting out of fossil fuels is not a sine qua non for achieving the 1.5°C target.
Al Jaber’s nuanced position
Al Jaber stresses the need for an energy transition, but calls for a pragmatic and realistic approach. He stresses the importance of developing a future energy system before we completely move away from fossil fuels, underlining the role of developed countries in this process.
The Scientific and Economic Debate
This position is based on science and economic reality, and aims to maintain the 1.5°C target. Al Jaber insists on a gradual reduction in fossil fuels, while noting their role in the future energy system.
The International Energy Agency Report
According to an IEA report, an 83% reduction in fossil fuel production is needed by 2050 to achieve carbon neutrality. This implies significant residual production, a point emphasized by the COP28 presidency in support of Al Jaber’s argument.
Al Jaber’s statements at COP28 raise critical questions about the balance between climate imperatives and economic considerations. This moderate approach reflects the complexity of the climate negotiations, while eliciting varied reactions from the international community.
