We interviewed Görkem Gömeç about COP28, which transpired on November 30 to December 12. The interview explores the pivotal decisions made during the summit, particularly focusing on the serious discussions regarding fossil fuels and their environmental implications.
The interview delves into the intricacies of these discussions, shedding light on various aspects related to fossil fuels. Additionally, it highlights the significant funds generated during COP28, exceeding $700 million, with a specific emphasis on climate adaptation and support for those affected by climate change.
The success of COP28 is underscored, particularly in raising funds for losses and damages, crucial for rebuilding efforts in the aftermath of climate change impacts. However, concerns are raised regarding the effectiveness of these decisions, as some countries, led by Saudi Arabia, express resistance to a complete phase-out of fossil fuels, revealing challenges in achieving global consensus.
In the midst of the global challenge posed by climate change, COP28 took center stage as the United Arab Emirates successfully hosted a pivotal climate conference, demanding concerted efforts from the international community.
This comprehensive overview delves into the historical context of COPs, with a specific focus on the recently concluded COP28, which unfolded from November 30 to December 12 at Expo City Dubai. Serving as the decision-making body of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), COPs provide a platform for nations to negotiate and collaborate on critical climate initiatives, and COP28 proved to be a significant juncture for global unity in addressing pressing environmental concerns.
COP Significance and Achievements
The COP28 Presidency, under the leadership of Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, underscored the United Arab Emirates’ dedication to climate action. The conference built upon the legacy of previous COPs, such as the landmark Kyoto Protocol in 1997 and the groundbreaking Paris Agreement in 2015, setting ambitious global targets for emissions reduction and temperature control.
The overarching goal remained keeping the global temperature increase within 1.5°C, a critical objective to prevent irreversible consequences. COP28 not only celebrated past achievements but also charted a course for future collaborative efforts to tackle the ongoing climate crisis.
COP28 Structure, Engagement, and Outcomes
COP28 featured a structured setup, dividing activities into the Blue and Green Zones. The Blue Zone, managed by UNFCCC, hosted formal negotiations and official events, while the Green Zone, under the COP28 UAE Presidency, offered an inclusive platform for public engagement.
Thematic days, a Youth Hub, Civil Societies Hub, and Arts and Cultural Programming enriched the conference experience for participants. The COP28 Presidency’s Action Agenda, focusing on a just energy transition, climate finance, and inclusivity, reflected the urgent need for collective action.
As nations converged in Dubai, COP28 became a beacon of collaboration, fostering discussions and commitments that contribute to building a sustainable and resilient global future.
Meet Our Guest Görkem Gömeç
After completing his undergraduate studies in Global and International Affairs at Boğaziçi University and SUNY Binghamton, he completed his master’s degree in Sustainable Development at Uppsala University in Sweden. He continues his seven years of content production experience with Çevreci Geek and Yeşil Öneriler.
