The COP28 climate conference ended Wednesday with an agreement to “transition away from fossil fuels.”
Climate change experts from Northeastern University say that does not go far enough.
“It is historic that there is a mention of fossil fuels; specifically, transitioning away from fossil fuels,” says Jennie Stephens, dean’s professor of sustainability science and policy at Northeastern. “But it’s disappointing that they didn’t decide to phase out or phase down fossil fuels.”
Laura Kuhl, assistant professor of public policy and urban affairs and international affairs, concurs.
“Apart from climate optimists and enthusiasm among the private sector, I don’t think there were many people who came away from this thinking this was a success,” Kuhl says. “If the final agreement were to be considered a success, it would only be in contrast to the absolutely abysmal draft text that was released a few days ago.”
