The biggest point of contention at COP is the structure and financing of losses and damages. Between the extreme positions of "decide everything immediately" and "just decide to talk," there must be a middle ground for a compromise. The solution could possibly lie in just one sentence.
By Bernhard Pötter
Expectations were high when China's climate envoy made a surprise appearance at a plenary session of the Global Methane Pledge. But the largest methane emitter did not sign the Pledge. A year after Glasgow, there are still many gaps in efforts to reduce methane emissions.
By Nico Beckert
At COP27, Brazil's future president promised greater forest protection. Yet the country is to remain an agricultural power. Ecosystem scientist Friedrich Bohn explains how this could be achieved.
By Alexandra Endres
After COP is before COP. The UN Biodiversity Conference (COP15) will start in early December. Just like the Paris Agreement for the climate, a framework for nature conservation will be negotiated in Montreal. The experience gained in Paris could help the negotiators in this process.
By Lukas Knigge
The industrialized countries are helping Indonesia phase out coal to net zero in 2050 with 20 billion dollars. South Africa is the model for this "JETP" initiative for equitable energy transformation. But in Vietnam, India, and Senegal, the initiative is making little headway.
By Bernhard Pötter
Nuclear expert Mycle Schneider deplores a "fact-free debate" on nuclear and climate. He says there is no evidence that nuclear technology plays an important role in the fight against global warming. And because time is of the essence, this debate is "absurd".
By Bernhard Pötter
COP is about to have its first big clash: India and Europe plan to demand scaling back all fossil fuels in their final declaration. Opposition from China, the Gulf states and the USA is inevitable. But the decision will be made at the G20 summit.
By Bernhard Pötter
At COP27, the German government and Ghana jointly presented the Global Shield against Climate Risks, which is intended to support countries particularly vulnerable to climate damage. Many details are still unclear. Some activists fear a distraction maneuver.
By Alexandra Endres
Negotiation week number two begins in Sharm el-Sheikh – and with it, the decisive round: The ministers arrive and the negotiations come to a head, becoming more confrontational. Money is at the center of the discussions.
By Lukas Knigge
Johan Rockström, co-director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK), has been advising COP delegates on scientific issues for years. His conclusion: Many don't understand the urgency to act. He sees "elements of frustration". But giving up is out of the question for him.
By Bernhard Pötter
