Rich countries have lost enthusiasm for combating the climate crisis while China is surging ahead in producing and using clean energy equipment, the president of the UN climate talks has said. More countries should follow China’s lead instead of complaining about being outcompeted, said André Corrêa do Lago, the Brazilian diplomat in charge of the Cop30 conference, which begins on Monday. …Top of the agenda will be national plans on cutting greenhouse gas emissions, which currently would lead to a devastating 2.5C of heating. Vulnerable countries want to draw up a plan that will show how countries can outdo their current inadequate efforts and meet the Paris agreement targets. …The Brazilian hosts are focused on “implementation” – that is, putting into practice commitments that have already been made. Despite efforts by Brazil, bitter disagreements over what the conference should focus on are still likely on Monday.
In related coverage:
- World Economic Forum: What does a successful COP30 look like?
- Jordan Omstead at Global News: What is Canada’s role at COP30?
- Seth Borenstein & Melina Walling, AP: Climate talks start without the US
- National Public Radio: Countries are gathering for climate negotiations. Here’s where the US stands