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Environment

COP28 deal has loopholes that could weaken its impact on emissions

An agreement reached at the COP28 climate summit mentions transitioning away from fossil fuels, but contains weak points that could limit our ability to keep the world from warming beyond 1.5°C

By James Dinneen

13 December 2023

John Kerry, the US climate envoy, speaking to attendees at COP28

Fadel Dawod/Getty Images

The agreement finalised on 13 December at COP28 is the world’s strongest statement to date about the need to transition away from fossil fuels, the primary source of our greenhouse gas emissions. But it has weaknesses that raise questions about whether this will push the world to cut emissions fast enough to meet climate targets.

“The final agreement at the Dubai climate talks is a mixed…

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