COP 28 ended on Wednesday. COP 28 is the nick name for the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference or Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC. This was the 28th United Nations Climate Change conference and it took place from 11/30-12/13/2023.
THE SIGNIFICANCE
For the first time in history, over 200 countries approved a plan to transition away from Fossil Fuels (oil, gas, and coal). This is a really big deal! This is the first time that the UN has used the term “fossil fuels”; despite the fact that burning oil, gas and coal is one of the main causes of climate change.
Here’s the key takeaways from the conference:
- A global shift away from fossil fuels
- Achieving net zero by 2050
- 3x more renewable energy by 2030
- Reinforcing the 1.5oC goal 43% reduction in emissions by 2030
- 60% reduction in emissions by 2035
WHAT ARE FOSSIL FUELS?
Found in the earth’s crust, fossil fuels are hydrocarbon materials made from decomposing plants and animals. They product large quantities of carbon pollution when burned. In 2019, 84% if the world’s primary energy consumption and 64% of its electricity was from fossil fuels. Over 80% of the carbon dioxide generated by human activity (around 35 billion tons a year) comes from burning fossil fuels.
SO, WHAT’S NEXT?
The COP 28 commitment rely on carbon capture technology, and experts have pointed out a number of loopholes. But we’re remaining hopeful!
Frequently Asked Questions About COP 28 and Climate Action
1. What is COP 28?
COP 28 refers to the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), a global summit where world leaders, negotiators, scientists, businesses, and civil society work together to accelerate climate solutions.
2. When and where did COP 28 take place?
COP 28 was held over several days (typically late fall) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, bringing together representatives from nearly every nation to discuss and commit to climate action.
3. Why is COP 28 important for addressing climate change?
COP 28 is a major global forum for negotiating climate policy, updating national emissions targets (NDCs), and tracking progress toward limits outlined in the Paris Agreement — especially the goal to keep global warming well below 2 °C above pre-industrial levels.
4. What were the key outcomes of COP 28?
Key outcomes can include updated national emissions commitments, agreements on phasing down fossil fuels or methane, climate finance pledges for adaptation and resilience, and frameworks for tracking implementation — signaling the world’s collective progress on climate action.
5. How does COP 28 impact global sustainability efforts?
COP 28 decisions influence climate policy, energy investments, and sustainability initiatives across governments and industries, shaping how nations and businesses plan for low-carbon futures.
6. Why does climate policy matter for the pet food industry?
Climate policies highlighted at COP 28 affect agriculture, land use, and food systems — all of which influence how proteins are produced. Pet food, being tied to livestock agriculture, is part of this ecosystem, so climate action can drive shifts toward more sustainable ingredients.
7. How can pet parents contribute to climate solutions discussed at COP 28?
Pet parents can support climate-friendly practices by choosing more environmentally efficient pet food options, reducing waste, supporting brands with transparent sustainability commitments, and advocating for policies that align with climate goals.
8. What role do alternative proteins play in climate mitigation?
Alternative proteins — such as insect protein — require fewer natural resources (land, water, feed) and emit fewer greenhouse gases than conventional livestock, aligning with climate mitigation strategies discussed at COP 28.
9. Did COP 28 address issues related to food systems and agriculture?
Yes — food systems and agriculture are increasingly part of climate negotiations because they contribute significantly to global emissions. COP 28 discussions include how to reduce emissions from food production and enhance resilience in agricultural sectors.
10. What is the Paris Agreement and how is it linked to COP 28?
The Paris Agreement is a foundational international climate treaty under the UNFCCC, setting goals to limit global warming. COP 28 functions as a checkpoint where nations update their climate commitments and report progress toward those goals.
11. How do emissions targets at COP 28 affect global warming projections?
Emissions targets help shape future climate trajectories. Stronger commitments — such as accelerated reductions in greenhouse gases — can help limit warming, reduce climate risks, and protect ecosystems, including those that intersect with pet food supply chains.
12. Is COP 28 focused only on governments?
No — COP 28 includes participation from businesses, NGOs, scientists, youth advocates, and civil society, all working together to share solutions and create partnerships for climate action.
