“It’s time to go into emergency mode,” UN Secretary General António Guterres said
A last-minute objection from China and India on the topic of coal softened language in the agreement from promising “the phase-out of unabated coal power” to only “phasing down” coal use. Coal is the single largest contributor to climate change, and India is one of the world’s most prolific users of coal. Still, the agreement represents a victory, in that it is the first time in the conference’s 26-year history that mentions coal and fossil fuels as a contributor to climate change.
“I understand the deep disappointment. It’s also vital we protect this package,” Alok Sharma, president of COP26, told the conference of the compromise. Marshall Islands climate envoy Tina Stege expressed disappointment with the coal compromise. “This commitment on coal had been a bright spot in this package,” Stege said, according to. “One thing we were hoping to carry out of here and with pride. It hurts deeply to see that bright spot dimmed.”
Addressing activists, young people and indigenous communities who were hoping for more progress, Guterres said, “I know you are disappointed. But the path of progress is not always a straight line. Sometimes there are detours. Sometimes there are ditches. But I know we can get there. We are in the fight of our lives, and this fight must be won. Never give up. Never retreat. Keep pushing forward.”
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