CNA Explains: What does the historic COP28 deal to move away from fossil fuels mean for the world?

“There are still a number of emerging economies, mainly in Sub-Saharan Africa, that are very concerned that a rapid transition away from fossil fuels would harm their economic development,” she said.

“I think it was worded in a way that both sides can feel that they’ve come away with a bit of a victory.”

The text also talks about accelerating zero- and low-emission technologies, including the likes of carbon capture and utilisation and storage – the process of capturing and storing carbon dioxide before it can be released into the atmosphere.

“We know that these are unproven technologies and if we continue to bank on these, then we are actually providing a free pass to the fossil fuel industry that wants to portray as if carbon capture and utilisation and storage technologies are going to solve the problem,” said Mr Harjeet Singh, head of global political strategy at Climate Action Network International. 

“These technologies may allow the fossil fuel industry to prolong the use of fossil fuels and continue with business as usual.”