Nearly 2,500 fossil fuel lobbyists are estimated to have been granted access to the COP28 climate conference in the United Arab Emirates, according to an analysis from advocacy groups, reflecting a sharp increase from last year.
On Tuesday, a report from the Kick Big Polluters Out coalition revealed that a staggering 2,456 fossil fuel lobbyists were registered to participate in the two-week-long COP28 summit. This figure surpassed the representation of almost every country delegation present, trailing only behind Brazil (3,081) and the host of COP28, the United Arab Emirates (4,409).
As COP28 reached its midpoint, the report raised concerns about the substantial presence of fossil fuel lobbyists, suggesting that it goes “beyond justification” and implies an effort by polluting industries to push a fossil fuel agenda, potentially at the expense of communities on the front lines of climate impacts.
While some, like former U.S. energy secretary Ernest Moniz, view the participation of Big Oil at COP28 positively, others, including campaigners, emphasize the potential conflict of interest and the need for urgent climate action. have been granted access
Leading up to the summit, the International Energy Agency acknowledged that the oil and gas industry faces a “moment of truth” regarding its role in the global energy system and the escalating climate crisis.
A spokesperson for COP28 was not immediately available for comment when approached by CNBC. Muhammed Lamin Saidykhan, head of building movement power at Climate Action Network International, expressed concern about the record attendance of Big Polluters, emphasizing the urgency of addressing climate change given the unprecedented challenges faced in 2023, including record temperatures and emissions. Saidykhan underscored the critical need for effective action and the potential consequences of allowing a growing number of Big Polluters to influence the summit without ensuring meaningful progress. fossil fuel lobbyists
The surge in the number of fossil fuel lobbyists attending the U.N. climate talks follows a growing call from public officials, U.N. constituencies and civil society groups to eject polluters from the talks.