Belem, Brazil – A draft text for the COP30 United Nations Climate Change Conference released on Friday has dropped an earlier proposal to develop a global plan for transitioning away from fossil fuels, a key point of contention among nearly 200 participating nations.

The omission comes despite pressure from dozens of countries, including Germany, Kenya, and low-lying island nations, which have been advocating for a roadmap to reduce reliance on fossil fuels in line with pledges made at COP28 two years ago. Saudi Arabia and other oil-producing nations opposed the inclusion of such a plan, according to negotiators.

Fossil Fuel Transition Controversy

For days, nations at COP30 have debated the future of fossil fuels, which remain the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions contributing to global warming.

• Early versions of the draft included options for language encouraging a shift away from coal, oil, and gas.
• In the pre-dawn text released Friday, all references to fossil fuels were removed.
• The draft remains subject to negotiation and must be approved by consensus before adoption.

COP30 Summit Disruptions

The COP30 conference, held in Brazil’s Amazon city of Belem, faced an unexpected challenge when a fire at the summit venue forced evacuation, delaying negotiations. Despite this, the summit is scheduled to conclude Friday, though talks may extend into the weekend, as is common at annual climate negotiations.

Climate Finance Commitments

The draft deal calls for a tripling of global climate adaptation financing by 2030 compared with 2025 levels. These funds aim to help nations adapt to climate impacts, such as:

• Reinforcing infrastructure against extreme weather
• Protecting buildings from storms and floods
• Addressing heatwaves and water scarcity

However, the draft does not clarify whether funding will come directly from wealthy governments, development banks, or private sector sources, a point likely to concern poorer nations seeking guarantees of public financing for adaptation.

Trade Dialogue Launch

The deal also proposes the launch of a “dialogue” on trade over the next three COP summits, involving governments and organizations such as the World Trade Organization (WTO).

• The move could satisfy China, which has long demanded climate discussions include trade issues.
• The proposal may be uncomfortable for the European Union, particularly concerning its carbon border levy, which has faced criticism from countries like South Africa and India.

Key Takeaways

• COP30 draft drops fossil fuel transition plan amid opposition from oil-producing nations.
• Summit emphasizes tripling climate adaptation finance by 2030.
• Future COP dialogues may include trade considerations involving the WTO.
• Negotiations continue, with the summit scheduled to finish Friday but possibly extending into the weekend.