COP31: Türkiye & Australia Clash on Fossil Fuels?

The upcoming COP31 climate conference, scheduled for November in Antalya, Türkiye, will be co-hosted by Türkiye and Australia. This unique arrangement sees both nations sharing key responsibilities. Türkiye and Australia are significant contributors to global fossil fuel consumption and export.

Despite their reliance on coal, gas, and oil, COP31's primary objective is to increase the share of final energy demand met by electricity to 35% by 2035. Priority agenda items include electrifying industries and vehicles, as well as protecting marine resources.

Notably absent from the priority themes are direct references to transitioning away from fossil fuels. This omission, coupled with calls for greater adaptation finance and the ongoing debate over a 'fossil fuel roadmap,' may shape the negotiations. Recent extreme weather events, such as the floods in Nepal, are expected to add pressure for stronger climate action.

Türkiye plans to augment recycling and reduce methane emissions, listing 'zero waste and a circular economy' as a priority. Australia is seeing advancements in electric vehicle adoption and investment in decarbonization within its mining sector.

The COP31 presidency has stated that space will be created for parties to discuss the transition, emphasizing electrification as a key step. Discussions on mitigation financing are also anticipated.