2023 will probably be the warmest year since measurements began

At the start of the World Climate Conference (COP28) in Dubai, climate experts from the United Nations presented a preliminary report according to which the year 2023 will break a number of climate records. It is likely to be the warmest year since industrialization.

The gap to the previous hottest years of 2016 and 2020 was so great by the end of October that November and December could practically not change anything, the World Weather Organization (WMO) reported in its preliminary report.

The climate conference began yesterday with discussions on disaster aid for poor countries. Delegates from almost 200 countries were presented with a proposal to set up a fund to deal with the consequences of climate disasters such as floods or droughts.

As hosts, the United Arab Emirates want a quick agreement on the disaster fund in order to pave the way for the targeted reduction in global CO2 emissions. Diplomats expect Germany, Denmark and the Netherlands to announce contributions to the fund in the coming days if it is set up.

It has been demanded by poorer countries for years. The European Union has also pledged a “substantial” contribution, but wants China and the United Arab Emirates to follow suit. The head of the COP28 summit, Adnan Amin, wants to raise several hundred million dollars.

A sticking point in the negotiations is bridging the gap between industrialized and developing countries. The latter are insisting on an agreement to replace fossil fuels with clean energy. In addition, many non-industrially developed countries are reluctant to move away from fossil fuels, which they believe are necessary for the growth of their economies.

Another focus of COP28 is an assessment of the status of efforts to limit global warming.

Austria will be represented at COP28 by Environment Minister Leonore Gewessler (Greens) and Finance Minister Magnus Brunner (ÖVP). Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen had to cancel his participation at short notice due to illness.

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