UN chief laments 'naked greed' of fossil fuel interests, countries criticize big polluters

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🗞️ Driving the news: Leaders and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at the U.N. Climate Summit levied strong criticism against major polluters
• He cited the "naked greed" of fossil fuel industries in advancing their profit-maximization interests over the planet as a significant hindrance in tackling climate change

🔭 The context: 34 nations with commendable climate actions were invited to share their insights, including Brazil and Canada
• The discussions unveiled the struggles and efforts of various countries in combating climate change, while the conspicuous absence of top polluters like the U.S. and China signaled concerns regarding commitment from major emitters

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: These criticisms and discussions are crucial as they not only highlight the severe impacts of inaction from major emitters but also emphasize the relentless disasters that climate-vulnerable nations are bracing for
• The discourse focused on the need for immediate reforms and substantial financial commitments to support developing nations in their climate actions

⏭️ What’s next: As COP28 approaches, the call for a significant shift in political will and global collaboration intensifies
• The push for universal taxes on fossil fuels and transformative pledges from various countries indicate a trajectory towards more robust and immediate climate solutions

💬 One quote: “This climate crisis is a fossil fuel crisis." (Gavin Newsom, California Governor)

📈 One stat: The International Monetary Fund noted fossil fuel subsidies had surged to a record $7 trillion last year, despite global pledges in 2021 to phase them out

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