COP28's Failure to Phase Out Fossil Fuels Sparks Devastation and Criticism

Scientists have expressed their disappointment and concern over the failure of COP28 to call for a phase-out of fossil fuels, describing it as "devastating" and "dangerous" given the urgent need to address the climate crisis. The compromise deal reached at the UN climate summit called for a "transition away" from fossil fuels, but the stronger term "phase-out" was blocked by petrostates. While the agreement was hailed as historic for acknowledging the role of fossil fuels, scientists argue that it contains loopholes and does not match the severity of the climate emergency. They emphasize the need for a complete and rapid phase-out of fossil fuels to limit global heating and protect the planet.