Bends in the road on the way to COP 27

Officials from member nations may have imagined at one point that upcoming climate talks would be focused on progress: in the growth of renewables, in efforts to hit emissions goals.

But the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent roiling of global energy markets have created a new reality. In the days leading up to the 27th Conference of the Parties in Egypt, the talk instead is about the growth in coal consumption and, as one official put it, “the debate about natural gas is over.” 

On the other hand, the possibly contentious debate over climate compensation — payments from developed nations to less-developed countries — may occur on friendlier terms. A leaked document indicates European Union nations will back compensation talks. Details were vague, according to reports.

An American official, asked about the issue, said the U.S. was not necessarily opposed.

“Would we…rule out talking about proposals for new things? No, of course not,” the official said. “We also think you need to examine the existing institutions and see what the what the gaps are.”

Out of such ambiguities comes the start of conversation.

Bloomberg: Egypt’s Climate Summit Is Heading for a Geopolitical Hurricane

Reuters: EU to back climate compensation talks at U.N. summit - document

Reuters: U.S. groups urge Kerry to back climate compensation fund