State of Green Denmark’s Post

What's next for climate science and activism, given that COP has been Co-OPted and made into a fossil fuel executives' joke of a playground? It's a kind of giant middle-finger to the planet and future generations, starting even before Sultan Al-Jaber was chosen to preside over #COP28, but the grotesque red carpeting of fossil energy at #COP29 unfolding in Azerbaijan shows these "talks" and "negotiations" have become a theater for wealth concentration, with no attempt to hide it (a la Exxon lying about the science and predictions of climate change for decades). Civility has failed, national-level targets aren't being met, and the response is a shoulder-shrug. I keep thinking about Daniel Quinn's "Ishmael" and the poignant analogy of building a different civilization-craft, rather than peddling harder on this one in hopes it will someday fly. Is mass direct action and disobedience possible? Necessary?

G20 countries turning backs on fossil fuel pledge, say campaigners Promise to ‘transition away from fossil fuels’ made at Cop28 climate talks has been left out of draft resolutions Leaked documents seen by the Guardian show that in the latest draft of paragraph 5 of the communique, where the commitment appeared in the first draft, there is no repetition of the reference to “transition away”. Instead, there is an oblique reference to the pledge, through a reference to “the goals set forth” in the Cop28 outcome, which include the commitment to transition away. Read on at https://lnkd.in/eHMXdSYp

I'll be in Baku over this fortnight covering the #COP29 climate conference - it's my fourth time on this merry-go-round and it's still as interesting every year. For the past two years though, it has been in a petro-state and that in itself poses challenges. Last year we were given limited access to the presidency after a major scolding by #COP28 president Sultan Al Jaber halfway through week one over reports that didn't paint him in a great light - and the press never saw him again. This year, we've been promised transparency... here's hoping that's the reality on the ground and we hear from the presidency a bit more often and that actually take real questions. But whatever way you look at these talks are the only global mechanism for limiting global warming. The talk this year will be around finance commitments to help developing countries reduce emissions, adapt for things like floods and to cover the cost of damages they incur. Right out of the starting blocks, controversial carbon markets have passed - with NGOs calling them 'false solutions'. Will we see any more text on transitioning away from fossil fuels - even though what many in the world is calling for is a phase out? I'll keep you posted. In the meantime, here's what Mary Robinson thinks... The former Irish president and now Elders leader says 'oil and gas companies fuelling climate collapse are getting away scot-free' - so she is supporting the @GlobalWitnessJP campaign demanding #PaybackTime for big oil at #COP29Baku https://lnkd.in/eV_ZhAJ4

🌍 A year after global leaders vowed to transition from fossil fuels at COP28, a United Nations report reveals that emissions have reached a record 57Gt and show no signs of significant decline this decade. Despite the promises, the world is struggling to make meaningful progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 👉 Read more on Mexico Business News to stay informed about the latest developments in the energy industry and climate initiatives. #ClimateChange #COP28 #COP29 #GlobalWarming 

Cop29 CEO filmed agreeing to facilitate fossil fuel deals at climate summit 🙊 In a shocking twist, Cop29 CEO Elnur Soltanov was filmed allegedly agreeing to facilitate fossil fuel deals in exchange for sponsorship. Once again, fossil fuel interests find a foothold at a climate summit meant to curb emissions and transition to clean energy... This scandal isn’t just about one CEO—it’s about the credibility of Cop itself. If the UNFCCC wants real climate progress, they must ban fossil fuel lobbyists from these talks. #ClimateAction #FossilFreeCOP #Greenwashing #UNFCCC #COP #COP29 #Climate https://lnkd.in/eWHpyrHn

“We must be relentless. Relentless in seeking emissions reductions. Relentless in securing renewable, sustainable energy sources. Relentless in applying nature-based solutions to maximize the efficacy of the earth’s own carbon cycle. Relentless in protecting communities from the impacts of global warming. And relentless in ensuring equity—so that communities most vulnerable to climate impacts receive the most assistance and share in the economic growth that comes from the renewable energy transition.” WWF’s Marcene Mitchell reflects on the lackluster closing of #COP29 and what we need to do in the face of the climate crisis: https://wwf.to/3Zeqvpg.

At COP29, the Pacific refuses to be “conveniently pigeon-holed,” as Reverend James Bhagwan so powerfully expresses. We stand united, representing both the resilience and vulnerability of our island nations, demanding commitments that go beyond words. Samoa's Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Toeolesulusulu Cedric Schuster, captured our stance: “We will not sign our death certificate. We cannot sign on to text that does not have strong commitments on phasing out fossil fuels.” This isn’t just about finance; it’s about a “full, fast, and fair transition” away from fossil fuels to safeguard our people and future generations. We hold a deep responsibility to land and sea that transcends any single negotiation or policy, driving us to challenge the status quo at every turn. #PacificAtCOP29 #ClimateJustice #FossilFuelPhaseOut #VinakaPadre #KommolTataPadre Read more below:

🌍 New UK Climate Target: A Bold Step Forward 🌍 At the UN COP29 climate talks in Azerbaijan, Sir Keir Starmer announced a new, ambitious goal for the UK: cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 81% by 2035, in line with recommendations from the Climate Change Committee. This pledge, part of the UK's nationally determined contribution (NDC), is a signal of the UK's commitment to global climate leadership. Key highlights from Starmer's speech: 🔋 Clean Power by 2030 – Starmer aims to deliver a zero-carbon power grid five years ahead of the CCC's recommendation, focusing on job creation and economic growth. 🌱 No Lifestyle Mandates – While achieving these goals, Starmer emphasized the importance of respecting individual choices and avoiding direct lifestyle interventions. 🌐 Call for Global Cooperation – Acknowledging the urgency of the climate crisis, he urged nations to come forward with ambitious targets, underscoring the need for responsible international cooperation. While this target has been welcomed by climate advocates, it also demands credible delivery plans to ensure tangible action. As Starmer highlighted, this is not just a race against time but a race towards a cleaner, more sustainable future. What are your thoughts on the UK’s new target? How can businesses step up to support this transition? 🤔 https://lnkd.in/eDrtzztv #ClimateAction #NetZero #COP29 #Sustainability

We can’t help but ask: why wait for 2050 when the solutions to make a difference are right in front of us?!! The outcomes at #COP29 underline a critical truth; action cannot be postponed. The time to reform how we use fossil fuels is now. By enhancing #fuelefficiency and cutting emissions today, we are proving that environmental responsibility and economic growth don’t have to clash. It’s about bridging the gap; delivering real, measurable progress in the present while building a foundation for a sustainable future. ❓ Why chase distant goals when we can act now? 💬 What’s your take - should near-term action take centre stage? Let’s discuss. Climate Home News

Over the last year I have shifted gears to focus on local climate action in Scotland working to decarbonize homes while simultaneously making them more comfortable, healthier and cost efficient with the team at Changeworks. Eight months into my new role I can't help but see the parallel between the challenges of international and local climate action. At both levels we are facing the challenge of keeping momentum on increased ambition - as well as ensuring that those parties (particularly the most vulnerable) have access to the financial and non-financial resources needed to take action. Right now it seems as if we are facing a dead-end given the current overlapping political, energy and geopolitical crises. However, I am increasingly optimistic that this is just a "blind corner": we need to advance a little further to see past the bend in the road.