COP30 Nations Agree Deal, Dodge Fossil Fuel Issue

More than 80 countries attending COP30 have reached a compromise agreement aimed at advancing global climate action, although the final text omits any reference to the fossil fuels driving global warming.

The United Nations summit concluded in Belem, Brazil, after days of difficult negotiations. Delegates approved a package that expands financial support for poorer nations dealing with climate impacts but stops short of identifying the role of coal, oil and gas in the climate crisis.

Applause at the closing session contrasted with concerns among many negotiators and observers who said the agreement contains several weak provisions. Expectations had already been low following the collapse of two other international negotiations this year on green shipping and plastics pollution.

UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, speaking to newsmen in Belem, noted that the absence of the United States from the talks added to the uncertainty surrounding the summit. He said fears of a wider withdrawal from climate commitments had not materialised. Instead of addressing fossil fuels directly, the agreement calls for accelerated implementation of existing pledges, including commitments first outlined at COP28 in Dubai. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the outcome did not meet the scale of action required, warning that the gap between current progress and scientific guidance remains dangerously wide.

Several negotiators voiced frustration at the omission of fossil fuels. Panama’s delegate, Juan Carlos Monterrey Gomez, criticised the decision, saying it reflected complicity rather than neutrality. He argued that scientific evidence had been sidelined because it challenged the interests of major polluters.

Despite the absence of a transition plan in the final text, COP30 president Andre Correa do Lago said voluntary initiatives on fossil fuels and forests would be developed. Colombia, which has moved to keep its coal reserves unexploited, is expected to host a meeting next year for countries interested in contributing to the proposed plan.

The summit was extended well beyond its scheduled end time on Friday as negotiators attempted to resolve a standoff between the European Union and the Arab Group of nations. The EU pushed for language supporting a shift away from fossil fuels, while Saudi Arabia and others opposed it. Negotiators said the impasse was resolved after all-night discussions led by Brazil.

EU climate commissioner Wopke Hoekstra said the final agreement was acceptable, even though the bloc had hoped for a stronger outcome. He said it was important to support the deal because it moves the process forward.