UN climate chief Simon Stiell emphasized that a new clean economy is emerging as COP30 concluded after long negotiations that ran into early Saturday. He highlighted that the world is moving away from polluting systems, marking a shift in global climate ambition and cooperation. The conference produced major financial commitments, including a goal to mobilise $1.3 trillion annually for climate action by 2035. It also set plans to significantly scale up adaptation finance and confirmed the operationalisation of the loss and damage fund. New initiatives such as the Global Implementation Accelerator and the Belém Mission to 1.5°C were launched, along with a commitment to counter climate disinformation.
The final outcome focused on solidarity and investment but stopped short of directly addressing the transition away from fossil fuels, despite their role as the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. Many countries were disappointed, especially those from South America and the EU, who expected a clear commitment to phasing out fossil fuels. More than 80 nations supported Brazil’s call for a formal roadmap, and earlier drafts included this language, but it was removed in the final hours, leaving only a reference to the UAE Consensus from COP28.
Before the closing session, Brazilian scientist Carlos Nobre warned that fossil fuel use must fall to zero between 2040 and 2045 to avoid catastrophic warming that could reach 2.5°C by mid-century. He cautioned that failure to act could lead to the loss of coral reefs, the collapse of the Amazon rainforest, and rapid melting of the Greenland ice sheet, underscoring the urgent need for stronger commitments.
