Cop30 live: Scientists warn countries must act decisively to protect people and life or risk ‘suffering for billions’ – as it happened

Why in news

Scientists warned Brazilian President Lula at COP30 that decisive action to phase out fossil fuels by 2040 and end deforestation is required to prevent global suffering.

Background

Scientists including Carlos Nobre and Johan Rockström urged a concurrent roadmap for fossil fuel phase-out and deforestation. Turkey is set to host COP31 in 2026 following Australia's withdrawal from the bid.

Facts for Prelims

• PlaceTurkey will host COP31 in 2026
• FactScientists proposed a deadline of 2040 to phase out fossil fuels
• S&TThe Trump administration proposed weakening protections under the Endangered Species Act

For Mains

Q. Discuss the geopolitical and economic challenges in achieving a global transition away from fossil fuels while balancing the developmental needs of emerging economies.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

• Economic trade-off: Balancing immediate industrial growth with long-term climate stability
• Policy friction: Conflict between national economic development and international biodiversity conservation mandates
• Institutional bottleneck: Influence of fossil fuel interests on UN climate negotiation outcomes

Keywords: Decarbonization · Deforestation · Climate Mitigation · Biodiversity Conservation · Fossil Fuel Transition

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