In an unexpected declaration at the COP26 climate meeting in Glasgow, China and the United States agreed to increase climate cooperation over the next decade.

In a joint declaration, the world's two largest CO2 emitters promised to act.

The countries declared an agreement to redouble efforts to combat climate change with "concrete steps" in an official joint statement released at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | UN: 80% of people displaced by climate change are women | COP26 Climate Summit

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The two most carbon-polluting countries said their agreement calls for "enhanced climate action in the 2020s" based on the 2015 Paris climate agreement guidelines, including a new stronger emission reduction target in 2025.

The pact also asks for "concrete and realistic" rules on decarbonisation, methane emissions reduction, and deforestation prevention. 
 
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"Both sides recognise that there is a gap between the current effort and the Paris Agreement goals, so we will jointly strengthen climate action," China’s climate envoy Xie Zhenhua said in announcing the agreement on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Xie stated that the agreement will include "specific measures" for further action this decade, and that both nations will "operate on the finalisation of the Paris Agreement rulebook" at the UN climate summit in Glasgow.&nbsp;

The United States and China are responsible for around 40% of global carbon pollution.

According to US climate envoy John Kerry, the nations also agreed to limit methane emissions, and the deal with China was a show of support for a successful United Nations climate conference.&nbsp;

Last week, US President Joe Biden stated that Chinese President Xi Jinping had "walked away" from the climate catastrophe by failing to attend the COP26 session.

China retaliated at the time, but relations appear to have warmed up ahead of long-awaited bilateral talks next week.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In an unexpected declaration at the COP26 climate meeting in Glasgow, China and the United States agreed to increase climate cooperation over the next decade. In a joint declaration, the world's two largest CO2 emitters promised to act.

In an unexpected declaration at the COP26 climate meeting in Glasgow, China and the United States agreed to increase climate cooperation over the next decade. In a joint declaration, the world's two largest CO2 emitters promised to act. The countries declared an agreement to redouble efforts to combat climate change with "concrete steps" in an official joint statement released at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow. Watch | UN: 80% of people displaced by climate change are women | COP26 Climate Summit Also read | Johnson cautious over fulfilling UN climate fund pledges The two most carbon-polluting countries said their agreement calls for "enhanced climate action in the 2020s" based on the 2015 Paris climate agreement guidelines, including a new stronger emission reduction target in 2025. The pact also asks for "concrete and realistic" rules on decarbonisation, methane emissions reduction, and deforestation prevention. Also read | US warns climate poses ‘emerging threat’ to financial system "Both sides recognise that there is a gap between the current effort and the Paris Agreement goals, so we will jointly strengthen climate action," China’s climate envoy Xie Zhenhua said in announcing the agreement on Wednesday. Xie stated that the agreement will include "specific measures" for further action this decade, and that both nations will "operate on the finalisation of the Paris Agreement rulebook" at the UN climate summit in Glasgow. The United States and China are responsible for around 40% of global carbon pollution. According to US climate envoy John Kerry, the nations also agreed to limit methane emissions, and the deal with China was a show of support for a successful United Nations climate conference. Last week, US President Joe Biden stated that Chinese President Xi Jinping had "walked away" from the climate catastrophe by failing to attend the COP26 session. China retaliated at the time, but relations appear to have warmed up ahead of long-awaited bilateral talks next week. (With inputs from agencies)

COP26: US and China issue joint pledge to boost climate co-operation

Most of the developing nations, including China, India and African countries, have sought at least US $1.3 trillion per year from the wealthy countries in climate finance&nbsp;starting from 2030—a demand that would be most likely to cause further consternation even as countries at COP26 negotiate on the amount.

A group of 24 nations that call themselves Like Minded Developing Countries (LMDCs), as well as countries from Africa, on Monday evening put forward this demand in a proposal for enhanced finance flows that they are pushing for inclusion in the final decisions that will be agreed at the climate conference in Glasgow.

India is part of the LMDC grouping along with China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Iran, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the Philippines and others.

Earlier in 2009 at COP15, the world’s richest countries had pledged to provide $100 billion per year of climate finance for developing countries every year till 2020. In the Paris Agreement, this period was extended till 2025.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-cautious-over-fulfilling-un-climate-fund-pledges-414349">Johnson cautious over fulfilling UN climate fund pledges</a>

But the deal never materialised, with many rich nations admitting that they won’t be able to do so before 2023 — three years after the original deadline.

The LMDCs have proposed to the United Nations at the summit said that half of the money must be allotted for financing renewable energy in developing countries, and the other half to them from the effects of global warming.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-climate-poses-emerging-threat-to-financial-system-422957">US warns climate poses ‘emerging threat’ to financial system</a>

These countries said that a “significant percentage” of climate finance, not less than $100 billion, should be in the form of grants, with at least $700 billion per year to be allotted to Africa alone.

The developing nations have argued that the enhanced climate finance is essential to driving their climate ambitions and preventing a global rise in temperatures beyond 1.5 degrees Celsius from pre-industrial levels under the Paris Agreement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-calls-for-hike-in-climate-finance-to-1-trillion-426278">India calls for hike in climate finance to $1 trillion</a>

The developing countries have also said that climate finance must be clearly defined so that it is not mixed up with other kinds of existing financial flows.

During a high-level ministerial dialogue on Climate Finance in Glasgow on Tuesday, India called on the developed countries to accept its historical responsibility and sought enhanced financing.

“We record our deep disappointment with the deliberations in COP26 so far. Developed countries must accept the historical responsibility and provide the financial resources to the developing countries,” it said in a statement.

“Developed countries had taken a commitment in 2009 to mobilise $100 billion per year by 2020 for climate action by developing countries. The promise has not been met. Scaling up mobilisation is pertinent given the huge gap between the requirement and extent of mobilisation,” said the statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

Most of the developing nations, including China, India and African countries, have sought at least US $1.3 trillion per year from the wealthy countries in climate finance starting from 2030—a demand that would be most likely to cause further consternation even as countries at COP26 negotiate on the amount.

Most of the developing nations, including China, India and African countries, have sought at least US $1.3 trillion per year from the wealthy countries in climate finance starting from 2030—a demand that would be most likely to cause further consternation even as countries at COP26 negotiate on the amount. A group of 24 nations that call themselves Like Minded Developing Countries (LMDCs), as well as countries from Africa, on Monday evening put forward this demand in a proposal for enhanced finance flows that they are pushing for inclusion in the final decisions that will be agreed at the climate conference in Glasgow. India is part of the LMDC grouping along with China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Iran, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the Philippines and others. Earlier in 2009 at COP15, the world’s richest countries had pledged to provide $100 billion per year of climate finance for developing countries every year till 2020. In the Paris Agreement, this period was extended till 2025. Also read | Johnson cautious over fulfilling UN climate fund pledges But the deal never materialised, with many rich nations admitting that they won’t be able to do so before 2023 — three years after the original deadline. The LMDCs have proposed to the United Nations at the summit said that half of the money must be allotted for financing renewable energy in developing countries, and the other half to them from the effects of global warming. Also read | US warns climate poses ‘emerging threat’ to financial system These countries said that a “significant percentage” of climate finance, not less than $100 billion, should be in the form of grants, with at least $700 billion per year to be allotted to Africa alone. The developing nations have argued that the enhanced climate finance is essential to driving their climate ambitions and preventing a global rise in temperatures beyond 1.5 degrees Celsius from pre-industrial levels under the Paris Agreement. Also read | India calls for hike in climate finance to $1 trillion The developing countries have also said that climate finance must be clearly defined so that it is not mixed up with other kinds of existing financial flows. During a high-level ministerial dialogue on Climate Finance in Glasgow on Tuesday, India called on the developed countries to accept its historical responsibility and sought enhanced financing. “We record our deep disappointment with the deliberations in COP26 so far. Developed countries must accept the historical responsibility and provide the financial resources to the developing countries,” it said in a statement. “Developed countries had taken a commitment in 2009 to mobilise $100 billion per year by 2020 for climate action by developing countries. The promise has not been met. Scaling up mobilisation is pertinent given the huge gap between the requirement and extent of mobilisation,” said the statement. (With inputs from agencies)

India, China, other developing nations propose $1.3 trillion per year in climate finance

The USA on Wednesday joined International Solar Alliance (ISA). With this, the US has become 101st country to become part of the grouping by signing the framework of the ISA. As its name suggests, the International Solar Alliance (ISA) seeks to bring about global energy transition to solar power.

John Kerry, U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate made the announcement on behalf of the US at COP26 climate summit on Wednesday. He met India's Minister for Environment Bhupender Yadav.

Yadav said that USA's entry into the ISA would further strengthen the grouping.

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COP26 Diary | US joins <a href="https://twitter.com/isolaralliance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@isolaralliance</a> <a href="https://t.co/SE2K2rbRYT">https://t.co/SE2K2rbRYT</a>
— Bhupender Yadav (@byadavbjp) <a href="https://twitter.com/byadavbjp/status/1458447764556181507?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“It has long been coming, and we are happy to join the International Solar Alliance, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the lead in making. We worked out the details and this is a process we are pleased to be a part of. This will be an important contribution to more rapid deployment of solar globally. It will be particularly important for developing countries,” said John Kerry.

Kerry even posted a tweet about it.

"Accelerating solar energy deployment globally is critical to keeping a limit of 1.5 degrees Celsius of warming within reach. The U.S. is pleased to join the @isolaralliance at #COP26. Thank you, Prime Minister @narendramodi and @byadavbjp for championing this important endeavor," he said in his tweet.

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Accelerating solar energy deployment globally is critical to keeping a limit of 1.5 degrees Celsius of warming within reach. The U.S. is pleased to join the <a href="https://twitter.com/isolaralliance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@isolaralliance</a> at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COP26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COP26</a>. Thank you, Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/byadavbjp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@byadavbjp</a> for championing this important endeavor.
— Special Presidential Envoy John Kerry (@ClimateEnvoy) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClimateEnvoy/status/1458420862290386949?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“The US’ endorsement of ISA’s framework and approach is an heartening development, especially as our 101st member nation, which is a significant milestone in itself, demonstrating that nations across the world are recognizing the economic and climate mitigating value of solar, as well as this energy source’s potential as a catalyst for global energy transition,” said Dr. Ajay Mathur, Director General, the ISA.

India Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former French President Francois Hollande announced launch of the ISA on November 30, 2015. The announcement was made at 21st session of United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP-21) in Paris, France.

The USA on Wednesday joined International Solar Alliance (ISA). With this, the US has become 101st country to become part of the grouping by signing the framework of the ISA.

The USA on Wednesday joined International Solar Alliance (ISA). With this, the US has become 101st country to become part of the grouping by signing the framework of the ISA. As its name suggests, the International Solar Alliance (ISA) seeks to bring about global energy transition to solar power. John Kerry, U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate made the announcement on behalf of the US at COP26 climate summit on Wednesday. He met India's Minister for Environment Bhupender Yadav. Yadav said that USA's entry into the ISA would further strengthen the grouping. COP26 Diary | US joins @isolaralliance https://t.co/SE2K2rbRYT — Bhupender Yadav (@byadavbjp) November 10, 2021 × “It has long been coming, and we are happy to join the International Solar Alliance, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the lead in making. We worked out the details and this is a process we are pleased to be a part of. This will be an important contribution to more rapid deployment of solar globally. It will be particularly important for developing countries,” said John Kerry. Kerry even posted a tweet about it. "Accelerating solar energy deployment globally is critical to keeping a limit of 1.5 degrees Celsius of warming within reach. The U.S. is pleased to join the @isolaralliance at #COP26. Thank you, Prime Minister @narendramodi and @byadavbjp for championing this important endeavor," he said in his tweet. Accelerating solar energy deployment globally is critical to keeping a limit of 1.5 degrees Celsius of warming within reach. The U.S. is pleased to join the @isolaralliance at #COP26. Thank you, Prime Minister @narendramodi and @byadavbjp for championing this important endeavor. — Special Presidential Envoy John Kerry (@ClimateEnvoy) November 10, 2021 × “The US’ endorsement of ISA’s framework and approach is an heartening development, especially as our 101st member nation, which is a significant milestone in itself, demonstrating that nations across the world are recognizing the economic and climate mitigating value of solar, as well as this energy source’s potential as a catalyst for global energy transition,” said Dr. Ajay Mathur, Director General, the ISA. India Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former French President Francois Hollande announced launch of the ISA on November 30, 2015. The announcement was made at 21st session of United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP-21) in Paris, France.

USA joins India-led International Solar Alliance, becomes 101st country to do so

A COP26 climate summit draft text on Wednesday urged countries to boost emission cutting goals by 2022, three years ahead of schedule. The text came after data showed that the world was far off track to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

The text called on nations to "revisit and strengthen" their decarbonisation plans by next year. Delegates from nearly 200 nations have been holding discussions on how the world can implement the Paris Agreement temperature goals.

The draft said "rapid, deep and sustained reductions in global greenhouse gas emissions" were needed to avert the worst impacts of heating, which has already seen countries worldwide slammed by fiercer floods, droughts and storms. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-china-other-developing-nations-propose-13-trillion-per-year-in-climate-finance-428142">India, China, other developing nations propose $1.3 trillion per year in climate finance</a>

COP26 was billed by host Britain as an opportunity to "keep 1.5C" alive after a year-long delay due to Covid-19.&nbsp;

However, countries' latest decarbonisation plans are likely to see Earth warm 2.7C this century, according to a United Nations assessment of the pledges.&nbsp;

The 2015 Paris accord contains a "ratchet" mechanism requiring countries to update emissions plans ever five years.&nbsp;

Several large emitters missed the 2020 deadline for submitting new plans, known as nationally determined contributions (NDCs).&nbsp;

Vulnerable nations say that the next deadline, in 2025, is too distant to deliver the short-term emissions cuts needed to avoid disastrous heating.

In what observers said was a "significant first mention" of the fuels driving global warming, the draft summit called on countries to "accelerate the phasing out of coal and subsidies for fossil fuels".&nbsp;

Previous climate summit decisions and the Paris Agreement itself do not so much as mention fossil fuels, focusing instead on emissions.

One senior negotiator told AFP they were confident that the fossil fuel mention would appear in the final text, "in some form or another".

But environmental groups criticised the draft for failing to reflect the urgency of the crisis facing the planet.

"This draft deal is not a plan to solve the climate crisis, it's an agreement that we'll all cross our fingers and hope for the best," said Greenpeace International Director Jennifer Morgan.&nbsp;

"It's a polite request that countries maybe, possibly, do more next year."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A COP26 climate summit draft text on Wednesday urged countries to boost emission cutting goals by 2022, three years ahead of schedule. The text came after data showed that the world was far off track to limit warming to 1.

A COP26 climate summit draft text on Wednesday urged countries to boost emission cutting goals by 2022, three years ahead of schedule. The text came after data showed that the world was far off track to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. The text called on nations to "revisit and strengthen" their decarbonisation plans by next year. Delegates from nearly 200 nations have been holding discussions on how the world can implement the Paris Agreement temperature goals. The draft said "rapid, deep and sustained reductions in global greenhouse gas emissions" were needed to avert the worst impacts of heating, which has already seen countries worldwide slammed by fiercer floods, droughts and storms. Also Read | India, China, other developing nations propose $1.3 trillion per year in climate finance COP26 was billed by host Britain as an opportunity to "keep 1.5C" alive after a year-long delay due to Covid-19. However, countries' latest decarbonisation plans are likely to see Earth warm 2.7C this century, according to a United Nations assessment of the pledges. The 2015 Paris accord contains a "ratchet" mechanism requiring countries to update emissions plans ever five years. Several large emitters missed the 2020 deadline for submitting new plans, known as nationally determined contributions (NDCs). Vulnerable nations say that the next deadline, in 2025, is too distant to deliver the short-term emissions cuts needed to avoid disastrous heating. In what observers said was a "significant first mention" of the fuels driving global warming, the draft summit called on countries to "accelerate the phasing out of coal and subsidies for fossil fuels". Previous climate summit decisions and the Paris Agreement itself do not so much as mention fossil fuels, focusing instead on emissions. One senior negotiator told AFP they were confident that the fossil fuel mention would appear in the final text, "in some form or another". But environmental groups criticised the draft for failing to reflect the urgency of the crisis facing the planet. "This draft deal is not a plan to solve the climate crisis, it's an agreement that we'll all cross our fingers and hope for the best," said Greenpeace International Director Jennifer Morgan. "It's a polite request that countries maybe, possibly, do more next year." (With inputs from agencies)

COP26 climate summit: Draft deal urges nations to speed up emission goals in 2022

Climate change is a phenomenon that impacts the world, no one gets spared from its devastating consequences. However, the effects are disproportionate. On Tuesday, the UN climate summit held a session on climate change and its impact on women in particular.

UN: 80% of people displaced by climate change are women | COP26 Climate Summit

Indians dominate Environmental Photographer of the Year 2021 award

Tuvalu's Communication and Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Kofe has recorded a video message for COP26 while standing knee-deep in seawater. The minister has become a social media favourite for his innovative call for climate action. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Tuvalu minister's records climate speech knee-deep in sea water

After the viral image of Tuvalu's minister in knee-deep water, he is now all set to make his address at the cop26 summit.

'Ready for the worst possibility,' says Tuvalu's minister

Nations are in the final week of negotiations on climate action in Glasgow. What will be analysed is whether countries will stand up to what they said or will it be like previous summits where goals have been set but have rarely been met.

Vulnerable nations at COP26 seek urgent action

To highlight the effects of climate of change, the foreign minister of Tuvalu, a low-lying island in the south Pacific, filmed his speech to COP26 climate summit standing knee-deep in the ocean to show how the nation is vulnerable to the climate crisis.

Images of Simon Kofe standing in a suit and tie&nbsp;with his trouser legs rolled up&nbsp;have been shared widely on social media.

The video was shot by public broadcaster&nbsp;TVBC&nbsp;at the far end of Fongafale, the main islet of the capital Funafuti, a government official said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/5-takeaways-from-the-first-days-of-the-climate-summit-427300">5 takeaways from the first days of the climate summit</a>

“The statement juxtaposes the COP26 setting with the real-life situations faced in Tuvalu due to the impacts of climate change and sea level rise and highlights the bold action Tuvalu is taking to address the very pressing issues of human mobility under climate change,” Kofe told news agency Reuters, ahead of the broadcast of his video message.

Tuvalu, which is about 2,500 miles southwest of Hawaii, is made up of nine small islands and has a population of around 12,000.

Its tourism website, Timeless Tuvalu, warns that by the end of the century it could be underwater.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greta-thunberg-calls-cop26-climate-summit-a-failure-427044">Greta Thunberg calls COP26 climate summit 'a failure'</a>

“School pupils are learning about the effects of climate change and “could be the last generation of children to grow up in Tuvalu,” the website states, while adding that many people have already emigrated to New Zealand.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/cop26-why-the-world-is-worried-about-china-and-co2-levels-425836">COP26: Why the world is worried about China and CO2 levels</a>

According to the&nbsp;World Bank, western Pacific ocean levels have risen at two to three times faster than the global average. They are forecast to rise between 0.5 and 1.1 metres before the end of the century.

Many big polluters have vowed to&nbsp;intensify their carbon cuts over the coming decades&nbsp;with some aiming for net zero carbon emissions by 2050. But Pacific Island leaders have demanded immediate action, pointing out that&nbsp;the very survival of their low-lying countries is at stake.

(With inputs from agencies)

To highlight the effects of climate of change, the foreign minister of Tuvalu, a low-lying island in the south Pacific, filmed his speech to COP26 climate summit standing knee-deep in the ocean to show how the nation is vulnerable to the climate crisis.

To highlight the effects of climate of change, the foreign minister of Tuvalu, a low-lying island in the south Pacific, filmed his speech to COP26 climate summit standing knee-deep in the ocean to show how the nation is vulnerable to the climate crisis. Images of Simon Kofe standing in a suit and tie with his trouser legs rolled up have been shared widely on social media. The video was shot by public broadcaster TVBC at the far end of Fongafale, the main islet of the capital Funafuti, a government official said. Also read | 5 takeaways from the first days of the climate summit “The statement juxtaposes the COP26 setting with the real-life situations faced in Tuvalu due to the impacts of climate change and sea level rise and highlights the bold action Tuvalu is taking to address the very pressing issues of human mobility under climate change,” Kofe told news agency Reuters, ahead of the broadcast of his video message. Tuvalu, which is about 2,500 miles southwest of Hawaii, is made up of nine small islands and has a population of around 12,000. Its tourism website, Timeless Tuvalu, warns that by the end of the century it could be underwater. Also read | Greta Thunberg calls COP26 climate summit 'a failure' “School pupils are learning about the effects of climate change and “could be the last generation of children to grow up in Tuvalu,” the website states, while adding that many people have already emigrated to New Zealand. Also read | COP26: Why the world is worried about China and CO2 levels According to the World Bank, western Pacific ocean levels have risen at two to three times faster than the global average. They are forecast to rise between 0.5 and 1.1 metres before the end of the century. Many big polluters have vowed to intensify their carbon cuts over the coming decades with some aiming for net zero carbon emissions by 2050. But Pacific Island leaders have demanded immediate action, pointing out that the very survival of their low-lying countries is at stake. (With inputs from agencies)

Minister of Tuvalu island films his COP26 speech knee-deep in ocean to highlight climate crisis

Scientists have warned that one billion people could suffer the severe impact of a mere rise of two degrees in global temperature.

The research, released by the Met Office of the United Kingdom, portrays a ''scary vision of the future,'' with experts saying that the world is ''woefully underprepared'' for what lies ahead.

The analysis is based on the research conducted by the Helix project, funded by the European Union. It maps the risks of climate disasters.

The 15-fold increase in the numbers exposed today can lead to a severe heatwave crisis across the world.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-if-scientists-are-wrong-about-the-age-of-continents-new-study-says-they-are-700-million-years-older-427935" hreflang="en">What if scientists are wrong about the age of continents? New study says they are 700 million years older</a>

The findings have been published during a landmark United Nations climate summit in Scotland being held to keep alive the possibility of capping global warming at 1.5 C above pre-industrial levels, the limit beyond which the world will be courting devastating climate impacts.&nbsp;

The Glasgow gathering, which runs to November 12, comes as an accelerating onslaught of extreme weather events across the world underscores the devastating impacts of climate change from 150 years of burning fossil fuels.&nbsp;

''Any one of the climate impacts presents a scary vision of the future. But, of course, severe climate change will drive many impacts, and our maps show that some regions will be affected by multiple factors,'' said Andy Wiltshire, at the Met Office.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/third-of-human-population-to-be-displaced-if-climate-change-not-curbed-427759" hreflang="en">Third of human population to be displaced if climate change not curbed</a>

Meanwhile, Albert Klein Tank, director of the Met Office Hadley Centre, said ''These maps reveal areas of the world where the gravest impacts are projected to occur. However, all regions of the world,&nbsp;including the UK and Europe,&nbsp;are expected to suffer continued impacts from climate change.''

At a UN climate summit 12 years ago in Copenhagen, rich nations promised to hand developing countries $100 billion a year by 2020 to help them adapt to climate change.

The target was missed and at COP26, richer nations have said they will meet the goal in 2023 at the latest, with some hoping it could be delivered a year earlier.

Scientists have warned that one billion people could suffer the severe impact of a mere rise of two degrees in global temperature. The research, released by the Met Office of the United Kingdom, portrays a ''scary vision of the future,'' with experts saying that the world is ''woefully underprepared'' for what lies ahead.

Scientists have warned that one billion people could suffer the severe impact of a mere rise of two degrees in global temperature. The research, released by the Met Office of the United Kingdom, portrays a ''scary vision of the future,'' with experts saying that the world is ''woefully underprepared'' for what lies ahead. The analysis is based on the research conducted by the Helix project, funded by the European Union. It maps the risks of climate disasters. The 15-fold increase in the numbers exposed today can lead to a severe heatwave crisis across the world. Also read | What if scientists are wrong about the age of continents? New study says they are 700 million years older The findings have been published during a landmark United Nations climate summit in Scotland being held to keep alive the possibility of capping global warming at 1.5 C above pre-industrial levels, the limit beyond which the world will be courting devastating climate impacts. The Glasgow gathering, which runs to November 12, comes as an accelerating onslaught of extreme weather events across the world underscores the devastating impacts of climate change from 150 years of burning fossil fuels. ''Any one of the climate impacts presents a scary vision of the future. But, of course, severe climate change will drive many impacts, and our maps show that some regions will be affected by multiple factors,'' said Andy Wiltshire, at the Met Office. Also read | Third of human population to be displaced if climate change not curbed Meanwhile, Albert Klein Tank, director of the Met Office Hadley Centre, said ''These maps reveal areas of the world where the gravest impacts are projected to occur. However, all regions of the world, including the UK and Europe, are expected to suffer continued impacts from climate change.'' At a UN climate summit 12 years ago in Copenhagen, rich nations promised to hand developing countries $100 billion a year by 2020 to help them adapt to climate change. The target was missed and at COP26, richer nations have said they will meet the goal in 2023 at the latest, with some hoping it could be delivered a year earlier.

'Scary vision of future': Rise in temperature by just 2C will make 1 billion people suffer

Maharashtra has won the Inspiring Regional Leadership Award from Under2 Coalition for Climate Action. By winning this award, &nbsp;Maharashtra became the only Indian state to win an award at COP26.

Aditya Thackeray, Maharashtra's Environment Minister, received the award on behalf of the state.&nbsp;

Speaking at the event in Glasgow, he said, "We strongly believe that it is high time we put in collective efforts and meaningful actions to work on this global issue that sees no borders of geography, race, nationality or gender. We are truly delighted to have been recognised by the Under2 Coalition for our heartfelt ongoing contribution towards climate action."

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This morning, in my keynote address at the <a href="https://twitter.com/ClimateGroup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ClimateGroup</a>’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Under2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Under2</a> General Assembly, I highlighted the urgent need for states and sub-national governments to collectively &amp; immediately act on climate change. <a href="https://t.co/ubPUzXCxMS">pic.twitter.com/ubPUzXCxMS</a>
— Aaditya Thackeray (@AUThackeray) <a href="https://twitter.com/AUThackeray/status/1457412397321228289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"This state wants to lead the way in India to tackle climate change. The Chief Minister (Uddhav Thackeray) is a passionate wildlife enthusiast and conservationist, and he has given us the opportunity to dream of a better future, a greener future. We have started with a movement called Majhi Vasundhara, which means My Planet. We are focussing on the traditional five elements of nature."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/glasgow-protests-protesters-perform-a-zombie-die-in-over-200-events-planned-worldwide-427579">Also read |&nbsp;Glasgow protests: Protesters perform a zombie die-in; over 200 events planned worldwide</a>

The award highlighted how the state government had succeeded in creating a culture of climate action in Maharashtra, which happens to be India's most industrialised state with a 720 km long vulnerable coastline.

Delegates from nearly 200 countries are in Glasgow to work on how to meet the Paris Agreement goals of limiting temperature rises to between 1.5 and 2 degrees Celsius.

At the halfway stage of the COP26 negotiations, some countries have upgraded their existing pledges to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, while there have been separate deals on phasing out coal.&nbsp;

The countries have also pledged to foreign fossil fuel funding, and slashing methane.

With just 1.1C of warming so far, communities across the world are already facing ever more intense fire and drought, displacement and economic ruin wrought by global heating.

Also, a major assessment last week showed global CO2 emissions were set to rebound in 2021 to pre-pandemic levels.

Maharashtra has won the Inspiring Regional Leadership Award from Under2 Coalition for Climate Action. By winning this award, Maharashtra became the only Indian state to win an award at COP26.

Maharashtra has won the Inspiring Regional Leadership Award from Under2 Coalition for Climate Action. By winning this award, Maharashtra became the only Indian state to win an award at COP26. Aditya Thackeray, Maharashtra's Environment Minister, received the award on behalf of the state. Speaking at the event in Glasgow, he said, "We strongly believe that it is high time we put in collective efforts and meaningful actions to work on this global issue that sees no borders of geography, race, nationality or gender. We are truly delighted to have been recognised by the Under2 Coalition for our heartfelt ongoing contribution towards climate action." This morning, in my keynote address at the @ClimateGroup’s #Under2 General Assembly, I highlighted the urgent need for states and sub-national governments to collectively & immediately act on climate change. pic.twitter.com/ubPUzXCxMS — Aaditya Thackeray (@AUThackeray) November 7, 2021 × "This state wants to lead the way in India to tackle climate change. The Chief Minister (Uddhav Thackeray) is a passionate wildlife enthusiast and conservationist, and he has given us the opportunity to dream of a better future, a greener future. We have started with a movement called Majhi Vasundhara, which means My Planet. We are focussing on the traditional five elements of nature." Also read | Glasgow protests: Protesters perform a zombie die-in; over 200 events planned worldwide The award highlighted how the state government had succeeded in creating a culture of climate action in Maharashtra, which happens to be India's most industrialised state with a 720 km long vulnerable coastline. Delegates from nearly 200 countries are in Glasgow to work on how to meet the Paris Agreement goals of limiting temperature rises to between 1.5 and 2 degrees Celsius. At the halfway stage of the COP26 negotiations, some countries have upgraded their existing pledges to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, while there have been separate deals on phasing out coal. The countries have also pledged to foreign fossil fuel funding, and slashing methane. With just 1.1C of warming so far, communities across the world are already facing ever more intense fire and drought, displacement and economic ruin wrought by global heating. Also, a major assessment last week showed global CO2 emissions were set to rebound in 2021 to pre-pandemic levels.

Maharashtra becomes only Indian state to win award at COP26

Glasgow protests: Protesters perform a zombie die-in; over 200 events planned worldwide

Former US President Barack Obama arrived in Glasgow to address the United Nations climate conference. 'We have not done nearly enough to address these crises, we have to do more and whether that happens or not to a large degree, it is going to depend upon you."

Former US President Barack Obama address COP26 climate conference

Former US President Barack Obama arrived in Glasgow to address the United Nations climate conference or COP26.

"We have to act now to help with adaptation and resilience," the former US president told the delegates at COP26 as he recalled his childhood experiences while growing up in Hawaii.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-vows-to-sell-coal-for-decades-into-the-future-despite-climate-warning-427687">Also Read:&nbsp;Australia vows to sell coal for 'decades into the future'&nbsp;</a>

"Our islands are threatened more than ever," Obama said while adding that wealthy nations have an "added burden" to ensure help is provided to those who are more vulnerable.

“It's a reminder that if you all want to paddle a canoe you better all be rowing in the same direction and at the same time, every oar has to move in unison, that's the only way that you move forward,” the former US president said as he urged people gathered at COP26 to work together.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-activists-mock-cop26-menu-over-meat-fish-selection-427439">Also Read:&nbsp;Climate activists mock COP26 menu over meat, fish selection &nbsp;</a>

"When it comes to the planet, time is running out, Obama said, adding, "We have not done enough, we have to do more. It depends on you, not just people present in the room."

Obama said "meaningful progress" had been achieved since the&nbsp;Paris&nbsp;agreement but there is "promise for further progress".&nbsp;Obama told the summit that 3 million people work in clean energy jobs in the US.

"Some of our progress stalled back in the US when my predecessor pulled out of the Paris climate agreement. I was not very happy about that," Obama said referring to the previous Trump administration.

"It was disappointing to see China and Russia not attending the event, Obama said, adding, "We need Europe, US, China, India and Russia leading on these issues."&nbsp;

Obama asserted that he could have done more on climate if there was a "stable congressional majority" during his presidency as he said Biden's "build back" better would be good. "He wants to do more," the ex-US president said.

"My message to young people begins by acknowledging that you have the right to be frustrated. People of my generation have not done enough," Obama conceded.

Obama said his mother often told him to "get busy, don't sulk, change what is needed to change" and&nbsp;that is what young people are doing, he said.

"Greta Thunberg is doing this, we have lots of Greta in the world."&nbsp;

"These young people are creating a movement across borders to make people of my generation work for the mess that they have created," he said.

"Young people understand these&nbsp;issues but they don't always vote," Obama added.

Several countries have vowed to end deforestation and phase out coal. However, Australia on Monday said it would continue to sell coal "decades into the future".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greta-thunberg-calls-cop26-climate-summit-a-failure-427044">Also Read:&nbsp;Greta Thunberg calls COP26 climate summit 'a failure'</a>

The summit has entered the final week as countries grapple with climate change issues.&nbsp; A&nbsp;report released during the summit said most vulnerable nations will witness a drop in GDP on average by 2050 by at least 20 per cent. Echoing Obama's thoughts, the report said small island nations are most vulnerable to rising sea levels and storms.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Former US President Barack Obama arrived in Glasgow to address the United Nations climate conference or COP26. "We have to act now to help with adaptation and resilience," the former US president told the delegates at COP26 as he recalled his childhood experiences while growing up in Hawaii.

Former US President Barack Obama arrived in Glasgow to address the United Nations climate conference or COP26. "We have to act now to help with adaptation and resilience," the former US president told the delegates at COP26 as he recalled his childhood experiences while growing up in Hawaii. Also Read: Australia vows to sell coal for 'decades into the future' "Our islands are threatened more than ever," Obama said while adding that wealthy nations have an "added burden" to ensure help is provided to those who are more vulnerable. “It's a reminder that if you all want to paddle a canoe you better all be rowing in the same direction and at the same time, every oar has to move in unison, that's the only way that you move forward,” the former US president said as he urged people gathered at COP26 to work together. Also Read: Climate activists mock COP26 menu over meat, fish selection "When it comes to the planet, time is running out, Obama said, adding, "We have not done enough, we have to do more. It depends on you, not just people present in the room." Obama said "meaningful progress" had been achieved since the Paris agreement but there is "promise for further progress". Obama told the summit that 3 million people work in clean energy jobs in the US. "Some of our progress stalled back in the US when my predecessor pulled out of the Paris climate agreement. I was not very happy about that," Obama said referring to the previous Trump administration. "It was disappointing to see China and Russia not attending the event, Obama said, adding, "We need Europe, US, China, India and Russia leading on these issues." Obama asserted that he could have done more on climate if there was a "stable congressional majority" during his presidency as he said Biden's "build back" better would be good. "He wants to do more," the ex-US president said. "My message to young people begins by acknowledging that you have the right to be frustrated. People of my generation have not done enough," Obama conceded. Obama said his mother often told him to "get busy, don't sulk, change what is needed to change" and that is what young people are doing, he said. "Greta Thunberg is doing this, we have lots of Greta in the world." "These young people are creating a movement across borders to make people of my generation work for the mess that they have created," he said. "Young people understand these issues but they don't always vote," Obama added. Several countries have vowed to end deforestation and phase out coal. However, Australia on Monday said it would continue to sell coal "decades into the future". Also Read: Greta Thunberg calls COP26 climate summit 'a failure' The summit has entered the final week as countries grapple with climate change issues. A report released during the summit said most vulnerable nations will witness a drop in GDP on average by 2050 by at least 20 per cent. Echoing Obama's thoughts, the report said small island nations are most vulnerable to rising sea levels and storms. (With inputs from Agencies)

I was not very happy about that: Obama takes a dig at Trump at COP26

The UN climate summit is underway in Glasgow, it has thousands of leaders making remarks, hundreds of sessions making it extremely difficult for your cost to stand out. Grim climate reality for Pacific nations, the image of Tuvalu minister goes viral.

Tuvalu minister stands in sea to film COP26 statement

While former US President Barack Obama will hold a roundtable and meetings with key leaders at the COP26 summit, the It Takes Roots (ITR) delegation will be highlighting the 'Monster of Militarism' and the contradictions of his legacy of militarism.

This includes greater military expansion into the Pacific, the expansion of drone warfare and the use of military interventions on water protectors fighting against the Dakota Action Pipeline. The ITR represents over 60 frontline communities leaders and organisers.&nbsp;

It believes that if one is addressing climate change, then they require to end the military-industrial complex.

One of the speakers at the protests will be Alejandra M. Lyons of the SouthWest Organising Project (SWOP). "I am attending COP26 to represent New Mexico and to tell our world leaders that we are not a sacrifice zone. Our land and water must be protected as well as the rights of future Nuevo Mexican generations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/glasgow-protests-protesters-perform-a-zombie-die-in-over-200-events-planned-worldwide-427579">Also read |&nbsp;Glasgow protests: Protesters perform a zombie die-in; over 200 events planned worldwide</a>

"We need to hold the US military accountable in this climate conversation no matter how much power they hold in our state," Lyons said.

Obama's speech will put the threat of climate change into a broader context, said Obama spokeswoman Hannah Hankins in a statement.&nbsp;

She further added that Obama will be speaking on important progress made&nbsp;since the Paris agreement took effect. Also, he will be highlighting the leadership of young people around the globe. With this, the former President will call for more bold action going forward by the governments, the private sector, philanthropy, and civil society.

The Scottish city hosted the COP26 climate summit a few days ago. Though pledges were made by global leaders to reduce carbon emissions, experts say that much more was needed to have been done.

(With inputs from agencies)

While former US President Barack Obama will hold a roundtable and meetings with key leaders at the COP26 summit, the It Takes Roots (ITR) delegation will be highlighting the 'Monster of Militarism' and the contradictions of his legacy of militarism.

While former US President Barack Obama will hold a roundtable and meetings with key leaders at the COP26 summit, the It Takes Roots (ITR) delegation will be highlighting the 'Monster of Militarism' and the contradictions of his legacy of militarism. This includes greater military expansion into the Pacific, the expansion of drone warfare and the use of military interventions on water protectors fighting against the Dakota Action Pipeline. The ITR represents over 60 frontline communities leaders and organisers. It believes that if one is addressing climate change, then they require to end the military-industrial complex. One of the speakers at the protests will be Alejandra M. Lyons of the SouthWest Organising Project (SWOP). "I am attending COP26 to represent New Mexico and to tell our world leaders that we are not a sacrifice zone. Our land and water must be protected as well as the rights of future Nuevo Mexican generations. Also read | Glasgow protests: Protesters perform a zombie die-in; over 200 events planned worldwide "We need to hold the US military accountable in this climate conversation no matter how much power they hold in our state," Lyons said. Obama's speech will put the threat of climate change into a broader context, said Obama spokeswoman Hannah Hankins in a statement. She further added that Obama will be speaking on important progress made since the Paris agreement took effect. Also, he will be highlighting the leadership of young people around the globe. With this, the former President will call for more bold action going forward by the governments, the private sector, philanthropy, and civil society. The Scottish city hosted the COP26 climate summit a few days ago. Though pledges were made by global leaders to reduce carbon emissions, experts say that much more was needed to have been done. (With inputs from agencies)

Former US President Barack Obama to face ITR protests at COP26 summit

Presidents and prime ministers have left town. Now the hard work starts, with diplomats hunkering down in a cavernous tent complex at the U.N. climate talks here for the next week and a half, trying to hammer out deals to cut planet-warming emissions.

More nations than ever are pledging to reduce emissions, move away from coal, eliminate deforestation and deliver money to help poor countries adapt. Environmental groups and poor nations are not as optimistic. They have seen promises come and go before.

Here are five take-aways from the early, frenetic days of the climate conference:

Holding a global conference in a pandemic is hard.

More than 39,000 people are registered for the summit. One problem: Capacity in the main venue is limited to 10,000 people because of COVID restrictions.

That has led to bottlenecks, long security lines and frustration, especially among civil society groups that were already angry that the U.N. had capped their presence inside the negotiating halls.

Everyone entering the venue, known as the “blue zone,” is asked to take a daily rapid coronavirus test. But for all the talk of strict controls, participants simply self-report their results. It is basically an honor system.

The United States ‘showed up.’

For nearly four years, the United States worked to undermine the progress of climate talks. Former President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the Paris climate agreement and vowed to burn more, not less, gas, oil and coal.

President Joe Biden arrived in Glasgow and flipped the script. He promised to show the world that the United States is “leading by the power of our example.”

Asked about the leaders of other countries, particularly those of China and Russia, who did not attend, Biden said, “We showed up.”

But some pivotal leaders didn’t.

The absences of Presidents Xi Jinping of China, Vladimir Putin of Russia and Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil were notable.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia did show up — but with an emissions target that experts said falls far short of what is needed. Brazil pledged to end deforestation by 2028. Activists are skeptical that Bolsonaro will follow through.

Both Russia and China have targets that, experts say, are not enough to keep the planet on a relatively safe trajectory. Leaving Glasgow, Biden scolded Xi and Putin for not attending. Officials in Beijing hit back, noting Biden was unable to persuade his own party to vote for climate legislation necessary to meet the United States’ aggressive targets.

Sparring will not solve the climate crisis. And it remains unclear whether the two biggest emitters, China and the United States, can move past tensions over trade and human rights to work together.

Money was pledged, but will it flow?

Banks and other lenders said they had $130 trillion to finance projects that aim to get companies and countries to net-zero emissions. The number, more than five times the size of the U.S. economy, grabbed headlines.

Environmentalists quickly threw cold water on it, arguing that scant details were provided and that banks still invest hundreds of billions of dollars in fossil fuels each year.

The next target: Ending coal

Poland, Vietnam, Egypt, Chile and Morocco are among 18 countries that will pledge Thursday to phase out coal-fired generation and stop building new plants. The British hosts of the U.N. conference want to leave their mark by ensuring the end of coal “is in sight.”

Yet the issue is deeply contentious. At the start of the summit, the prime minister of Fiji, Frank Bainimarama, told Morrison of Australia that “coal has no place in this century.” Morrison has clearly said he will not discuss fossil fuel mandates or bans.

Expect more pushback in the coming days from Australia, as well as China, India and Russia, to any language formalizing a phaseout of coal in any final decision from the summit. 
&nbsp;

Presidents and prime ministers have left town. Now the hard work starts, with diplomats hunkering down in a cavernous tent complex at the U.N. climate talks here for the next week and a half, trying to hammer out deals to cut planet-warming emissions.

Presidents and prime ministers have left town. Now the hard work starts, with diplomats hunkering down in a cavernous tent complex at the U.N. climate talks here for the next week and a half, trying to hammer out deals to cut planet-warming emissions. More nations than ever are pledging to reduce emissions, move away from coal, eliminate deforestation and deliver money to help poor countries adapt. Environmental groups and poor nations are not as optimistic. They have seen promises come and go before. Here are five take-aways from the early, frenetic days of the climate conference: Holding a global conference in a pandemic is hard. More than 39,000 people are registered for the summit. One problem: Capacity in the main venue is limited to 10,000 people because of COVID restrictions. That has led to bottlenecks, long security lines and frustration, especially among civil society groups that were already angry that the U.N. had capped their presence inside the negotiating halls. Everyone entering the venue, known as the “blue zone,” is asked to take a daily rapid coronavirus test. But for all the talk of strict controls, participants simply self-report their results. It is basically an honor system. The United States ‘showed up.’ For nearly four years, the United States worked to undermine the progress of climate talks. Former President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the Paris climate agreement and vowed to burn more, not less, gas, oil and coal. President Joe Biden arrived in Glasgow and flipped the script. He promised to show the world that the United States is “leading by the power of our example.” Asked about the leaders of other countries, particularly those of China and Russia, who did not attend, Biden said, “We showed up.” But some pivotal leaders didn’t. The absences of Presidents Xi Jinping of China, Vladimir Putin of Russia and Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil were notable. Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia did show up — but with an emissions target that experts said falls far short of what is needed. Brazil pledged to end deforestation by 2028. Activists are skeptical that Bolsonaro will follow through. Both Russia and China have targets that, experts say, are not enough to keep the planet on a relatively safe trajectory. Leaving Glasgow, Biden scolded Xi and Putin for not attending. Officials in Beijing hit back, noting Biden was unable to persuade his own party to vote for climate legislation necessary to meet the United States’ aggressive targets. Sparring will not solve the climate crisis. And it remains unclear whether the two biggest emitters, China and the United States, can move past tensions over trade and human rights to work together. Money was pledged, but will it flow? Banks and other lenders said they had $130 trillion to finance projects that aim to get companies and countries to net-zero emissions. The number, more than five times the size of the U.S. economy, grabbed headlines. Environmentalists quickly threw cold water on it, arguing that scant details were provided and that banks still invest hundreds of billions of dollars in fossil fuels each year. The next target: Ending coal Poland, Vietnam, Egypt, Chile and Morocco are among 18 countries that will pledge Thursday to phase out coal-fired generation and stop building new plants. The British hosts of the U.N. conference want to leave their mark by ensuring the end of coal “is in sight.” Yet the issue is deeply contentious. At the start of the summit, the prime minister of Fiji, Frank Bainimarama, told Morrison of Australia that “coal has no place in this century.” Morrison has clearly said he will not discuss fossil fuel mandates or bans. Expect more pushback in the coming days from Australia, as well as China, India and Russia, to any language formalizing a phaseout of coal in any final decision from the summit.

5 takeaways from the first days of the climate summit

Activists have criticised the menu being served at this year’s UN climate summit in Glasgow. &nbsp; &nbsp;

It has at least one item that had a significantly larger carbon footprint than the average meal in the UK. &nbsp;

Joel Scott-Halkes, a climate activist and founder, wildcard.land, posted, "Meat and fish on the menu at #COP26?! This is the equivalent of serving cigarettes at a lung cancer conference. Only when governments grasp animal agriculture’s central role in the #climate crisis will we stand a chance of solving it." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-cop26-enters-its-final-week-boris-johnson-urges-countries-to-make-the-bold-compromises-427394" hreflang="en">As COP26 enters its final week, Boris Johnson urges countries to 'make the bold compromises'</a>

The COP26 released the menu online for all to see and showcased the carbon impact, The Hill reported. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The haggis dish, which was pointed by the website, was twice the carbon footprint of the average meal in the UK. &nbsp;&nbsp;

As per the report, there was a separate menu for burgers and half of which had about the same footprint as the haggis dish only. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-scientists-find-high-amounts-of-toxic-rubber-glove-chemicals-in-fast-food-424934" hreflang="en">US scientists find ‘high amounts’ of toxic rubber glove chemicals in fast food</a>

As per the menu, 95% food was locally sourced and seasonal. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Many of our suppliers are based within 100 miles of Glasgow, which supports our aspirations of delivering a lower carbon menu. About 40% of the options were plant-based and "plant-forward alternatives," the menu read. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Activists have criticised the menu being served at this year’s UN climate summit in Glasgow. It has at least one item that had a significantly larger carbon footprint than the average meal in the UK.

Activists have criticised the menu being served at this year’s UN climate summit in Glasgow. It has at least one item that had a significantly larger carbon footprint than the average meal in the UK. Joel Scott-Halkes, a climate activist and founder, wildcard.land, posted, "Meat and fish on the menu at #COP26?! This is the equivalent of serving cigarettes at a lung cancer conference. Only when governments grasp animal agriculture’s central role in the #climate crisis will we stand a chance of solving it." Also Read: As COP26 enters its final week, Boris Johnson urges countries to 'make the bold compromises' The COP26 released the menu online for all to see and showcased the carbon impact, The Hill reported. The haggis dish, which was pointed by the website, was twice the carbon footprint of the average meal in the UK. As per the report, there was a separate menu for burgers and half of which had about the same footprint as the haggis dish only. Also Read: US scientists find ‘high amounts’ of toxic rubber glove chemicals in fast food As per the menu, 95% food was locally sourced and seasonal. "Many of our suppliers are based within 100 miles of Glasgow, which supports our aspirations of delivering a lower carbon menu. About 40% of the options were plant-based and "plant-forward alternatives," the menu read. (With inputs from agencies)

Climate activists mock COP26 menu over meat, fish selection  

COP26 summit has entered its final week, and while speaking to world leaders, UK PM Boris Johnson urged the countries to "make the bold compromises and ambitious commitments needed."&nbsp;

Johnson said that the ministers and negotiators at COP26 should "pull together and drive for the line" to make sure that the climate change plan is accomplished.

“There is one week left for COP26 to deliver for the world, and we must all pull together and drive for the line. We have seen nations bring ambition and action to help limit rising temperatures, with new pledges to cut carbon and methane emissions, end deforestation, phase out coal and provide more finance to countries most vulnerable to climate change. But we cannot underestimate the task at hand to keep 1.5C alive," said Johnson.

Meanwhile, demonstrators began gathering on Saturday morning in a park near the COP26 summit venue, chanting: "Our world is under attack, stand up fight back!"&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/glasgow-rainbow-lights-up-the-sky-during-climate-protest-427261">Also read |&nbsp;Glasgow: Rainbow lights up the sky during climate protest</a>

Delegates from nearly 200 countries are in Glasgow to figure out a way to meet the Paris Agreement goals of limiting temperature rises to between 1.5 and 2 degrees Celsius.

At the summit, some countries have upgraded their existing pledges to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, while there have been separate deals on phasing out coal. Countries have also pledged to end foreign fossil fuel funding, and slash methane.

A major assessment last week showed global CO2 emissions were set to rebound in 2021 to pre-pandemic levels. 
Swedish campaigner Greta Thunberg said the summit had gone nowhere near far enough at Friday's youth march in Glasgow, where she labelled the conference "a failure".

COP26 summit has entered its final week, and while speaking to world leaders, UK PM Boris Johnson urged the countries to "make the bold compromises and ambitious commitments needed.

COP26 summit has entered its final week, and while speaking to world leaders, UK PM Boris Johnson urged the countries to "make the bold compromises and ambitious commitments needed." Johnson said that the ministers and negotiators at COP26 should "pull together and drive for the line" to make sure that the climate change plan is accomplished. “There is one week left for COP26 to deliver for the world, and we must all pull together and drive for the line. We have seen nations bring ambition and action to help limit rising temperatures, with new pledges to cut carbon and methane emissions, end deforestation, phase out coal and provide more finance to countries most vulnerable to climate change. But we cannot underestimate the task at hand to keep 1.5C alive," said Johnson. Meanwhile, demonstrators began gathering on Saturday morning in a park near the COP26 summit venue, chanting: "Our world is under attack, stand up fight back!" Also read | Glasgow: Rainbow lights up the sky during climate protest Delegates from nearly 200 countries are in Glasgow to figure out a way to meet the Paris Agreement goals of limiting temperature rises to between 1.5 and 2 degrees Celsius. At the summit, some countries have upgraded their existing pledges to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, while there have been separate deals on phasing out coal. Countries have also pledged to end foreign fossil fuel funding, and slash methane. A major assessment last week showed global CO2 emissions were set to rebound in 2021 to pre-pandemic levels. Swedish campaigner Greta Thunberg said the summit had gone nowhere near far enough at Friday's youth march in Glasgow, where she labelled the conference "a failure".

As COP26 enters its final week, Boris Johnson urges countries to 'make the bold compromises'

For more than two decades, promoters and purveyors of nuclear energy felt shunned at UN climate change conferences.

At the COP26 summit underway in Glasgow, however, they have been welcomed with open arms, the UN's top nuclear regulator told AFP.

The spectre of Chernobyl and Fukushima, along with the enduring problem of nuclear waste, kept energy generated by splitting atoms on the sidelines, even if that energy was virtually carbon free.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greta-thunberg-calls-cop26-climate-summit-a-failure-427044">Greta Thunberg calls COP26 climate summit 'a failure'</a>

But as the climate crisis deepens and the need to transition away from fossil fuels becomes urgent, attitudes may be shifting.

"Nuclear energy is part of the solution to global warming, there's no way around it," said Rafael Mariano Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, in an interview.

It already accounts for a quarter of "clean" -- that is, carbon-free -- energy worldwide, and Grossi said this COP26 is the first where it has "had a seat at the table".

"The winds are changing."

To have even a 50/50 chance of capping global warming at 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels -- the threshold for dangerous tipping points that could trigger runaway warming -- global greenhouse emissions must be slashed by almost half within a decade, scientists say.

But things are still moving in the wrong direction: a report on Thursday said emissions in 2021 are approaching record levels.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned they could hit new heights by 2023.

That is helping refocus attention on nuclear.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/5-takeaways-from-the-first-days-of-the-climate-summit-427300">5 takeaways from the first days of the climate summit</a>

"At the 2015 COP in Paris, nuclear wasn't welcome," said Callum Thomas, head of a recruitment firm for the nuclear industry, who was spotted at COP26 sporting a T-shirt saying "Let's Talk Nuclear".

"There was a belief it was not needed. Now many countries are looking at the feasibility, especially with the rise in gas prices."

<h2>'Never stops'&nbsp;</h2>

From the time he took the IAEA's helm nearly two years ago, Grossi, an Argentine diplomat, has been a tireless advocate for the industry.

At his first COP in Madrid he "went in spite of the general assumption that nuclear would not be welcome".

On the contrary in Glasgow, where nearly 200 countries are still trying to put flesh on the bone of the 2015 Paris Agreement, he said "nuclear is not only welcome, but is generating a lot of interest".

Grossi argues that the technology can not only speed the transition away from fossil fuels, but also power research on technologies needed for adapting to climate impacts, from finding drought-resistant crops to eradicating mosquitos. &nbsp;

He acknowledges that it carries serious risks. &nbsp;

The meltdown of three reactors at Japan's Fukushima power plant in 2011 following an earthquake and a tsunami profoundly shook confidence in nuclear.

The industry also has yet to find a way to dispose of nuclear waste, which remains highly radioactive for thousands of years.

But Grossi said these issues are not disqualifying, arguing that statistically the technology has fewer negative consequences than many other forms of energy.

It could also be a complement to renewables.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-calls-cop26-deforestation-pledge-unfair-says-development-wont-stop-in-the-name-of-emissions-426834">Indonesia calls COP26 deforestation pledge ‘unfair’, says development ‘won’t stop in the name of emissions</a>’

"Nuclear energy goes on and on for the entire year, it never stops," he said.

Even so, with prolonged construction times, many argue that it is too late to build enough nuclear capacity to effectively join the battle against global warming.

But Grossi said he thinks part of the answer lies in keeping existing reactors up and running.&nbsp;

<h2>100-year-old reactors?&nbsp;</h2>

Many power plants designed to run for 40 years are now licensed for 60 years under strict national safety standards supervised by the IAEA, he said.

"What could be more efficient than a facility that you build that gives you energy for close to 100 years?" he said.

He acknowledged that plants running that long might be a "bit of a provocation".

"But it still might be possible."

In their projections on how to limit the rise in global temperatures and satisfy a growing global demand for energy at the same time, the IEA takes all non-carbon sources on board.

The UN's climate science advisory panel, the IPCC, has also given a place to nuclear in its models, even as it says that its deployment "could be limited by social preferences."

Indeed, attitudes towards nuclear power vary sharply across nations.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/you-might-as-well-bomb-us-says-president-of-palau-at-cop26-climate-summit-426376">'You might as well bomb us,' says president of Palau at COP26 climate summit</a>

While New Zealand and Germany are opposed, India is in discussions with French energy giant EDF to build what would be the largest nuclear power plant in the world.

Meanwhile, both Canada and the United States are developing so-called "small modular reactors", although only Russia has put into operation a floating reactor using this technology.

Price is also not the barrier it used to be, said Grossi.

"Countries see in smaller units a very interesting alternative, which is not in the range of billions but of hundreds of millions," he said. "When it comes to energy projects, this is quite affordable."

For more than two decades, promoters and purveyors of nuclear energy felt shunned at UN climate change conferences. At the COP26 summit underway in Glasgow, however, they have been welcomed with open arms, the UN's top nuclear regulator told AFP.

For more than two decades, promoters and purveyors of nuclear energy felt shunned at UN climate change conferences. At the COP26 summit underway in Glasgow, however, they have been welcomed with open arms, the UN's top nuclear regulator told AFP. The spectre of Chernobyl and Fukushima, along with the enduring problem of nuclear waste, kept energy generated by splitting atoms on the sidelines, even if that energy was virtually carbon free. Also Read | Greta Thunberg calls COP26 climate summit 'a failure' But as the climate crisis deepens and the need to transition away from fossil fuels becomes urgent, attitudes may be shifting. "Nuclear energy is part of the solution to global warming, there's no way around it," said Rafael Mariano Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, in an interview. It already accounts for a quarter of "clean" -- that is, carbon-free -- energy worldwide, and Grossi said this COP26 is the first where it has "had a seat at the table". "The winds are changing." To have even a 50/50 chance of capping global warming at 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels -- the threshold for dangerous tipping points that could trigger runaway warming -- global greenhouse emissions must be slashed by almost half within a decade, scientists say. But things are still moving in the wrong direction: a report on Thursday said emissions in 2021 are approaching record levels. The International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned they could hit new heights by 2023. That is helping refocus attention on nuclear. Also Read | 5 takeaways from the first days of the climate summit "At the 2015 COP in Paris, nuclear wasn't welcome," said Callum Thomas, head of a recruitment firm for the nuclear industry, who was spotted at COP26 sporting a T-shirt saying "Let's Talk Nuclear". "There was a belief it was not needed. Now many countries are looking at the feasibility, especially with the rise in gas prices." 'Never stops' From the time he took the IAEA's helm nearly two years ago, Grossi, an Argentine diplomat, has been a tireless advocate for the industry. At his first COP in Madrid he "went in spite of the general assumption that nuclear would not be welcome". On the contrary in Glasgow, where nearly 200 countries are still trying to put flesh on the bone of the 2015 Paris Agreement, he said "nuclear is not only welcome, but is generating a lot of interest". Grossi argues that the technology can not only speed the transition away from fossil fuels, but also power research on technologies needed for adapting to climate impacts, from finding drought-resistant crops to eradicating mosquitos. He acknowledges that it carries serious risks. The meltdown of three reactors at Japan's Fukushima power plant in 2011 following an earthquake and a tsunami profoundly shook confidence in nuclear. The industry also has yet to find a way to dispose of nuclear waste, which remains highly radioactive for thousands of years. But Grossi said these issues are not disqualifying, arguing that statistically the technology has fewer negative consequences than many other forms of energy. It could also be a complement to renewables. Also Read | Indonesia calls COP26 deforestation pledge ‘unfair’, says development ‘won’t stop in the name of emissions’ "Nuclear energy goes on and on for the entire year, it never stops," he said. Even so, with prolonged construction times, many argue that it is too late to build enough nuclear capacity to effectively join the battle against global warming. But Grossi said he thinks part of the answer lies in keeping existing reactors up and running. 100-year-old reactors? Many power plants designed to run for 40 years are now licensed for 60 years under strict national safety standards supervised by the IAEA, he said. "What could be more efficient than a facility that you build that gives you energy for close to 100 years?" he said. He acknowledged that plants running that long might be a "bit of a provocation". "But it still might be possible." In their projections on how to limit the rise in global temperatures and satisfy a growing global demand for energy at the same time, the IEA takes all non-carbon sources on board. The UN's climate science advisory panel, the IPCC, has also given a place to nuclear in its models, even as it says that its deployment "could be limited by social preferences." Indeed, attitudes towards nuclear power vary sharply across nations. Also Read | 'You might as well bomb us,' says president of Palau at COP26 climate summit While New Zealand and Germany are opposed, India is in discussions with French energy giant EDF to build what would be the largest nuclear power plant in the world. Meanwhile, both Canada and the United States are developing so-called "small modular reactors", although only Russia has put into operation a floating reactor using this technology. Price is also not the barrier it used to be, said Grossi. "Countries see in smaller units a very interesting alternative, which is not in the range of billions but of hundreds of millions," he said. "When it comes to energy projects, this is quite affordable."

Climate crisis could give nuclear energy a second wind

Mega summits are always a logistics nightmare, and when heads of state of over a dozen countries are coming, it is a challenge in every sense. Even amidst challenge, hosts Italy and UK for the G20 and Glasgow COP26 climate summit gave "special protocol consideration" to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian delegation, it is learnt. This meant the the PM’s movement between hotel and venue were coordinated according to leader’s other engagements. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/palestines-pm-seeks-indias-support-at-international-forums-427083" hreflang="en">Palestine's PM seeks India's support at international forums</a>

The Indian delegation was also in Indian PM's hotel. This may sound easy, but when a country is hosting mega summits, hotel space and bookings are impossible to get. Especially with thousands of journalists, delegations, activists also descending to the particular city. This is especially cumbersome in a post-Covid crisis world where protocols need to be followed. Remember, many countries had their delegation divide into several hotels across Rome and Glasgow during last week's key summits. &nbsp;

Interestingly, hosts had also provided flexibility in order to accommodate India’s other bilateral engagements. Indian Prime Minister had over 15 bilateral meetings on the sidelines of G20 and COP26 summit.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-in-kedarnath-modi-offers-prayers-unveils-adi-shankaracharya-statue-426909" hreflang="en">PM in Kedarnath: Modi offers prayers, unveils Adi Shankaracharya statue</a>

This included meetings with Italy's Prime Minister Mario Draghi, French President Emmanuel Macron, outgoing German chancellor Angela Merkel in Rome and the new Prime Minister of Nepal Sher Bahadur Deuba, Israel PM Naftali Bennett, UK PM Boris Johnson at Glasgow. He also met Indian community members in a Covid complaint protocol in Italy and Glasgow. &nbsp;

This year's G20 summit is happening in-person since 2019. Last year's summit was virtual for the first time due to Covid crisis since the group came into being since the 2008. India will be hosting the summit in 2023, which will be the first time, the country hosts the summit.&nbsp;

Mega summits are always a logistics nightmare, and when heads of state of over a dozen countries are coming, it is a challenge in every sense. Even amidst challenge, hosts Italy and UK for the G20 and Glasgow COP26 climate summit gave "special protocol consideration" to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian delegation, it is learnt.

Mega summits are always a logistics nightmare, and when heads of state of over a dozen countries are coming, it is a challenge in every sense. Even amidst challenge, hosts Italy and UK for the G20 and Glasgow COP26 climate summit gave "special protocol consideration" to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian delegation, it is learnt. This meant the the PM’s movement between hotel and venue were coordinated according to leader’s other engagements. Also Read: Palestine's PM seeks India's support at international forums The Indian delegation was also in Indian PM's hotel. This may sound easy, but when a country is hosting mega summits, hotel space and bookings are impossible to get. Especially with thousands of journalists, delegations, activists also descending to the particular city. This is especially cumbersome in a post-Covid crisis world where protocols need to be followed. Remember, many countries had their delegation divide into several hotels across Rome and Glasgow during last week's key summits. Interestingly, hosts had also provided flexibility in order to accommodate India’s other bilateral engagements. Indian Prime Minister had over 15 bilateral meetings on the sidelines of G20 and COP26 summit. Also Read | PM in Kedarnath: Modi offers prayers, unveils Adi Shankaracharya statue This included meetings with Italy's Prime Minister Mario Draghi, French President Emmanuel Macron, outgoing German chancellor Angela Merkel in Rome and the new Prime Minister of Nepal Sher Bahadur Deuba, Israel PM Naftali Bennett, UK PM Boris Johnson at Glasgow. He also met Indian community members in a Covid complaint protocol in Italy and Glasgow. This year's G20 summit is happening in-person since 2019. Last year's summit was virtual for the first time due to Covid crisis since the group came into being since the 2008. India will be hosting the summit in 2023, which will be the first time, the country hosts the summit.

G20, COP26 saw special protocol for Indian PM Modi

Hundreds of protesters gathered in Paris to demand meaningful action from world leaders at the Glasgow COP26 summit on Saturday.

Demonstrators answering the call of various environmental NGOs held banners and signs, performed stunts and chanted slogans in front of the French capital's city hall.

"Today, we do not need announcements, promises and commitments, we need concrete action," Greenpeace France head Jean-Francois Julliard told Reuters. "How will they do it, country by country, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the most important sectors?"

The demonstration was one of many across the world called for by a coalition of environmental groups and other civil society organisations as part of a "Global Day of Action for Climate Justice."

A week of government speeches and pledges at the two-week UN climate conference in Glasgow brought promises to phase out coal, slash emissions of the potent greenhouse gas methane and cut deforestation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/million-mask-march-protesters-wearing-guy-fawkes-masks-clash-with-police-in-uk-427179">Also read |&nbsp;Million Mask March: Protesters wearing Guy Fawkes masks clash with police in UK</a>

Protesters in Paris expressed frustration however because of what they described as "climate inaction" and "empty words" on the part of world leaders.

"I am 73 years old and I can see that we are leaving an extremely dangerous world to our children. Our leaders, even though they attend COPs, are not implementing the necessary measures against global warming," said protester Marie-Claire Gourinal.

Echoing the message of prominent Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and a generation of young climate activists, numerous young protesters also attended the Paris rally to call for a change.

"Coming here allows me to see that I am not alone in worrying about the future and it gives me a bit of hope," 17 year old protester Mia Rety told Reuters. "But I also hope that things will change at a higher level, because at my own level, there isn't much I can really do."

Hundreds of protesters gathered in Paris to demand meaningful action from world leaders at the Glasgow COP26 summit on Saturday. Demonstrators answering the call of various environmental NGOs held banners and signs, performed stunts and chanted slogans in front of the French capital's city hall.

Hundreds of protesters gathered in Paris to demand meaningful action from world leaders at the Glasgow COP26 summit on Saturday. Demonstrators answering the call of various environmental NGOs held banners and signs, performed stunts and chanted slogans in front of the French capital's city hall. "Today, we do not need announcements, promises and commitments, we need concrete action," Greenpeace France head Jean-Francois Julliard told Reuters. "How will they do it, country by country, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the most important sectors?" The demonstration was one of many across the world called for by a coalition of environmental groups and other civil society organisations as part of a "Global Day of Action for Climate Justice." A week of government speeches and pledges at the two-week UN climate conference in Glasgow brought promises to phase out coal, slash emissions of the potent greenhouse gas methane and cut deforestation. Also read | Million Mask March: Protesters wearing Guy Fawkes masks clash with police in UK Protesters in Paris expressed frustration however because of what they described as "climate inaction" and "empty words" on the part of world leaders. "I am 73 years old and I can see that we are leaving an extremely dangerous world to our children. Our leaders, even though they attend COPs, are not implementing the necessary measures against global warming," said protester Marie-Claire Gourinal. Echoing the message of prominent Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and a generation of young climate activists, numerous young protesters also attended the Paris rally to call for a change. "Coming here allows me to see that I am not alone in worrying about the future and it gives me a bit of hope," 17 year old protester Mia Rety told Reuters. "But I also hope that things will change at a higher level, because at my own level, there isn't much I can really do."

Paris protesters call for 'concrete actions' on climate change at COP26

Indonesian Environment Minister Siti Nurbaya Bakar has slammed the terms of deal under the COP26 to end deforestation by 2030, calling it “inappropriate and unfair” days after the island country’s President Joko Widodo joined with 127 other nations to sign the historic forest agreement.

In a Facebook post, Bakar said the authorities could not “promise what we can’t do”.

“The massive development of President Jokowi’s era must not stop in the name of carbon emissions or in the name of deforestation,” she said, referring to Widodo by his nickname.

“Indonesia’s natural wealth, including forests, must be managed for its use according to sustainable principles, besides being fair,” she said.

The deal was announced on Monday at the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow. It was the event’s first major announcement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-could-phase-out-coal-by-2040-with-financial-help-says-finance-minister-426322">Indonesia could phase out coal by 2040 with financial help, says finance minister</a>

It pledges $19.2 billion of public and private funds and promises to end and reverse deforestation by 2030.

The environment minister was joined by the country’s vice foreign minister, Mahendra Siregar, who on Thursday said that zero deforestation by 2030 was not even part of the COP26 pledge.

“The declaration issued does not refer at all to the ‘end deforestation by 2030’,” he said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop26-climate-summit-world-leaders-pledge-to-end-deforestation-by-2030-425988">COP26 climate summit: World leaders pledge to end deforestation by 2030</a>

“It is important to move beyond mere narrative, rhetoric, arbitrary targets and sound bites,” he added.

He further said that the pledge did not mean to halt deforestation completely but to ensure there was no net loss of forested land.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop26-uk-to-push-plan-to-halt-and-reverse-global-deforestation-by-2030-421088">COP26: UK to push plan to halt and reverse global deforestation by 2030</a>

Mahendra later told Reuters that Indonesia interprets “halt and reverse forest loss and land degradation by 2030”, as stated in the pledge, as “sustainable forest management... not end deforestation by 2030”.

Indonesia is home to the world’s third-largest expanse of tropical forest cover, but rampant deforestation since the 1960s has seen half of the country’s forests cut down by illegal loggers and to make way for commercial plantations such as palm oil.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indonesian Environment Minister Siti Nurbaya Bakar has slammed the terms of deal under the COP26 to end deforestation by 2030, calling it “inappropriate and unfair” days after the island country’s President Joko Widodo joined with 127 other nations to sign the historic forest agreement.

Indonesian Environment Minister Siti Nurbaya Bakar has slammed the terms of deal under the COP26 to end deforestation by 2030, calling it “inappropriate and unfair” days after the island country’s President Joko Widodo joined with 127 other nations to sign the historic forest agreement. In a Facebook post, Bakar said the authorities could not “promise what we can’t do”. “The massive development of President Jokowi’s era must not stop in the name of carbon emissions or in the name of deforestation,” she said, referring to Widodo by his nickname. “Indonesia’s natural wealth, including forests, must be managed for its use according to sustainable principles, besides being fair,” she said. The deal was announced on Monday at the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow. It was the event’s first major announcement. Also read | Indonesia could phase out coal by 2040 with financial help, says finance minister It pledges $19.2 billion of public and private funds and promises to end and reverse deforestation by 2030. The environment minister was joined by the country’s vice foreign minister, Mahendra Siregar, who on Thursday said that zero deforestation by 2030 was not even part of the COP26 pledge. “The declaration issued does not refer at all to the ‘end deforestation by 2030’,” he said in a statement. Also read | COP26 climate summit: World leaders pledge to end deforestation by 2030 “It is important to move beyond mere narrative, rhetoric, arbitrary targets and sound bites,” he added. He further said that the pledge did not mean to halt deforestation completely but to ensure there was no net loss of forested land. Also read | COP26: UK to push plan to halt and reverse global deforestation by 2030 Mahendra later told Reuters that Indonesia interprets “halt and reverse forest loss and land degradation by 2030”, as stated in the pledge, as “sustainable forest management... not end deforestation by 2030”. Indonesia is home to the world’s third-largest expanse of tropical forest cover, but rampant deforestation since the 1960s has seen half of the country’s forests cut down by illegal loggers and to make way for commercial plantations such as palm oil. (With inputs from agencies)

Indonesia calls COP26 deforestation pledge ‘unfair’, says development ‘won’t stop in the name of emissions’

Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg on Friday branded COP26 climate summit in Glasgow 'failure'. The climate summit in the Scottish city produced what some experts say vague promises to cut emissions even after a week of negotiations.

"It is not a secret that COP26 is a failure," Thunberg told thousands of youth protesters at a march in the Scottish city.&nbsp;

She called the COP26 talks "a two-week long celebration of business as usual and 'blah, blah, blah'." &nbsp;

"This is no longer a climate conference. This is now a global greenwashing festival," Thunberg told cheering crowds.&nbsp;

Delegates from nearly 200 nations are gathered at the COP26 summit to hash out the details of the 2015 Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global temperature rises to between 1.5 and 2 degrees Celsius through sweeping emissions cuts.&nbsp;

The first week saw announcements by some countries to phase out coal use and to end foreign fossil fuel funding, but there were few details on how they plan the mass decarbonisation scientists say is needed.

"They cannot ignore the scientific consensus and they cannot ignore us," said Thunberg.

"Our leaders are not leading. This is what leadership looks like," she said gesturing to the crowd.

Thunberg galvanised young people around the world to take action in "Fridays for Future" school strikes - which began with her standing every week outside the Swedish parliament.

The British president of the two-week conference acknowledged that much more needed to be done to secure more ambitious commitments to stop the world's slide into climate catastrophe, urging national negotiators to step up the pace.

(With inputs from agencies)

Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg on Friday branded COP26 climate summit in Glasgow 'failure'. The climate summit in the Scottish city produced what some experts say vague promises to cut emissions even after a week of negotiations.

Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg on Friday branded COP26 climate summit in Glasgow 'failure'. The climate summit in the Scottish city produced what some experts say vague promises to cut emissions even after a week of negotiations. "It is not a secret that COP26 is a failure," Thunberg told thousands of youth protesters at a march in the Scottish city. She called the COP26 talks "a two-week long celebration of business as usual and 'blah, blah, blah'." "This is no longer a climate conference. This is now a global greenwashing festival," Thunberg told cheering crowds. Delegates from nearly 200 nations are gathered at the COP26 summit to hash out the details of the 2015 Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global temperature rises to between 1.5 and 2 degrees Celsius through sweeping emissions cuts. The first week saw announcements by some countries to phase out coal use and to end foreign fossil fuel funding, but there were few details on how they plan the mass decarbonisation scientists say is needed. "They cannot ignore the scientific consensus and they cannot ignore us," said Thunberg. "Our leaders are not leading. This is what leadership looks like," she said gesturing to the crowd. Thunberg galvanised young people around the world to take action in "Fridays for Future" school strikes - which began with her standing every week outside the Swedish parliament. The British president of the two-week conference acknowledged that much more needed to be done to secure more ambitious commitments to stop the world's slide into climate catastrophe, urging national negotiators to step up the pace. (With inputs from agencies)

Greta Thunberg calls COP26 climate summit 'a failure'

Several major coal-using nations have pledged for the first time to phase out their use of the heavily-polluting fossil fuel, while others announced commitments to end investment in new coal-fired power plants.

COP26 Climate Summit: Several countries set coal phase out deadline

A new study has revealed that only two per cent of Australia's Great Barrier Reef has escaped bleaching since 1998.

The research, conducted by the Australian Research Council's Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, has been published in the peer-reviewed journal Current Biology.

According to the study's lead author Terry Hughes, ''Five bouts of mass bleaching since 1998 have turned the Great Barrier Reef into a checkerboard of reefs with very different recent histories, ranging from two percent of reefs that have escaped bleaching altogether, to 80 per cent that have now bleached severely at least once since 2016.''

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-world-heritage-list-and-why-is-great-barrier-reef-facing-a-downgrade-399810">Also read |&nbsp;What is World Heritage List and why is Great Barrier Reef facing a downgrade?</a>

He has warned that the reef will survive if global warming is kept to 1.5 degrees.

''If we go to 3, 4 degrees of global average warming which is tragically the trajectory we are currently on, then there won't be much left of the Great Barrier Reef or any other coral reefs throughout the tropics,'' Hughes said.

The findings come during a landmark United Nations climate summit in Glasgow, Scotland, where Australia committed to reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 but failed to announce a more ambitious 2030 target.

Bleaching occurs when healthy corals become stressed by spikes in ocean temperatures, causing them to expel algae living in their tissues which drains them of their vibrant colours.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-at-cop26-vow-to-cut-methane-emissions-by-30-426203" hreflang="en">World leaders at COP26 vow to cut methane emissions by 30%</a>

Meanwhile, co-author Sean Connolly said, ''Corals still need time to recover before another round of heat stress so they can make babies that will disperse, settle and recover the depleted parts of the reef.''

"Action to curb climate change is crucial."

It comes after Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison lobbied to keep the Great Barrier Reef off the 'in danger' list issued by the World Heritage Committee.

Eighty percent of the World Heritage-listed wonder has been bleached severely at least once since 2016.

In July, scientists working under the government said that corals have shown some signs of recovery since the last bleaching but admit the long-term outlook for the 2,300-kilometre-long (1,400-mile-long) ecosystem is "very poor".

Cyclones and outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish also cause damage to the reef.

A new study has revealed that only two per cent of Australia's Great Barrier Reef has escaped bleaching since 1998. The research, conducted by the Australian Research Council's Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, has been published in the peer-reviewed journal Current Biology.

A new study has revealed that only two per cent of Australia's Great Barrier Reef has escaped bleaching since 1998. The research, conducted by the Australian Research Council's Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, has been published in the peer-reviewed journal Current Biology. According to the study's lead author Terry Hughes, ''Five bouts of mass bleaching since 1998 have turned the Great Barrier Reef into a checkerboard of reefs with very different recent histories, ranging from two percent of reefs that have escaped bleaching altogether, to 80 per cent that have now bleached severely at least once since 2016.'' Also read | What is World Heritage List and why is Great Barrier Reef facing a downgrade? He has warned that the reef will survive if global warming is kept to 1.5 degrees. ''If we go to 3, 4 degrees of global average warming which is tragically the trajectory we are currently on, then there won't be much left of the Great Barrier Reef or any other coral reefs throughout the tropics,'' Hughes said. The findings come during a landmark United Nations climate summit in Glasgow, Scotland, where Australia committed to reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 but failed to announce a more ambitious 2030 target. Bleaching occurs when healthy corals become stressed by spikes in ocean temperatures, causing them to expel algae living in their tissues which drains them of their vibrant colours. Also read | World leaders at COP26 vow to cut methane emissions by 30% Meanwhile, co-author Sean Connolly said, ''Corals still need time to recover before another round of heat stress so they can make babies that will disperse, settle and recover the depleted parts of the reef.'' "Action to curb climate change is crucial." It comes after Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison lobbied to keep the Great Barrier Reef off the 'in danger' list issued by the World Heritage Committee. Eighty percent of the World Heritage-listed wonder has been bleached severely at least once since 2016. In July, scientists working under the government said that corals have shown some signs of recovery since the last bleaching but admit the long-term outlook for the 2,300-kilometre-long (1,400-mile-long) ecosystem is "very poor". Cyclones and outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish also cause damage to the reef.

Research reveals only 2% of Australia's Great Barrier Reef escaped bleaching

Russia and China have defended their measures on climate change in the face of criticism from US President Joe Biden, and both nations have criticised the US for 'backsliding' on its climate plans.&nbsp;

The Kremlin stated that a potential second summit between Biden and President Vladimir Putin would provide an opportunity to further examine the problem.

Biden chastised the presidents of China and Russia for declining to attend the United Nations climate meeting in Scotland on Tuesday, accusing them of a lack of leadership. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-slams-russia-china-for-missing-cop26-426258">US President Joe Biden slams Russia, China for missing COP26</a>

Dmitry Peskov, a spokesperson for the Kremlin, told reporters that global warming was causing not just Russia's vast arctic wildness, but also Californian woods to burn.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | US President Biden criticises China and Russia for missing COP26 Climate Summit

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-biden-criticises-china-and-russia-for-missing-cop26-climate-summit-426383/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Peskov added: "I'm convinced that when the presidents next talk - the usefulness of which we have already agreed on, as we've mentioned before - I think President Putin will have an excellent opportunity to tell President Biden about what we're doing on climate."

Xie Zhenhua, China's main climate negotiator in Glasgow, criticised Biden's predecessor Donald Trump for withdrawing the US from the Paris Agreement, saying it was time to "work harder and catch up."

Zhang Jun, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, slammed the United States' "empty slogans" on climate change.&nbsp;

"China has been earnestly supporting #ClimateAction. We are not the ones who withdrew from the Paris Agreement. The US, however, has back-pedalled on its climate policies many times. Instead of blame-shifting, what it should do now is to shoulder responsibility and take concrete actions, " he added.

China had alleged that Xi sent a written statement for the summit instead of giving an address by video conference after the organisers did not provide a link.

Beijing has vowed to reach an emissions peak by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2060, among other ambitions. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-making-rapid-progress-in-development-of-silos-missiles-that-could-launch-nuclear-weapons-report-426276" hreflang="en">China making rapid progress in development of silos missiles: Report</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia and China have defended their measures on climate change in the face of criticism from US President Joe Biden, and both nations have criticised the US for 'backsliding' on its climate plans.

Russia and China have defended their measures on climate change in the face of criticism from US President Joe Biden, and both nations have criticised the US for 'backsliding' on its climate plans. The Kremlin stated that a potential second summit between Biden and President Vladimir Putin would provide an opportunity to further examine the problem. Biden chastised the presidents of China and Russia for declining to attend the United Nations climate meeting in Scotland on Tuesday, accusing them of a lack of leadership. Also read | US President Joe Biden slams Russia, China for missing COP26 Dmitry Peskov, a spokesperson for the Kremlin, told reporters that global warming was causing not just Russia's vast arctic wildness, but also Californian woods to burn. Watch | US President Biden criticises China and Russia for missing COP26 Climate Summit Peskov added: "I'm convinced that when the presidents next talk - the usefulness of which we have already agreed on, as we've mentioned before - I think President Putin will have an excellent opportunity to tell President Biden about what we're doing on climate." Xie Zhenhua, China's main climate negotiator in Glasgow, criticised Biden's predecessor Donald Trump for withdrawing the US from the Paris Agreement, saying it was time to "work harder and catch up." Zhang Jun, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, slammed the United States' "empty slogans" on climate change. "China has been earnestly supporting #ClimateAction. We are not the ones who withdrew from the Paris Agreement. The US, however, has back-pedalled on its climate policies many times. Instead of blame-shifting, what it should do now is to shoulder responsibility and take concrete actions, " he added. China had alleged that Xi sent a written statement for the summit instead of giving an address by video conference after the organisers did not provide a link. Beijing has vowed to reach an emissions peak by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2060, among other ambitions. Also read | China making rapid progress in development of silos missiles: Report (With inputs from agencies)

COP26: China, Russia hit back at Biden's jibe, slam US on climate policies

More than 40 countries have agreed to ''consigning coal to history'' and phase out the world's dirtiest fossil fuel.

The agreement in the COP26 summit will help to keep the United Nation's goal to limit global heating to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels alive.

''Today marks a milestone moment in our global efforts to tackle climate change, as nations from all corners of the world unite in Glasgow to declare that coal has no part to play in our future power generation,'' said the UK's business secretary Kwasi Kwarteng.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-surprises-the-climate-summit-by-announcing-indias-goal-of-reaching-net-zero-emissions-by-2070-425933">Also read |&nbsp;PM Modi surprises the climate summit by announcing India's goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2070</a>

''Today’s ambitious commitments made by our international partners demonstrate that the end of coal is in sight.''

Major coal-using countries such as Canada, Poland, Vietnam, and Chile said they would stop building new plants.

However, the world's biggest coal-consuming countries such as China and the United States are not part of the deal.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cop26-summit-in-glasglow-world-leaders-face-urgent-call-to-tackle-climate-crisis-426107/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Meanwhile, the Powering Past Coal Alliance has also secured 28 new members. It is an international campaign aimed at phasing out the fuel.

The US and Britain have announced a partnership worth $8.5 billion with South Africa at the COP26 conference, to help the country phase out coal faster.

Phasing out of coal is seen as vital to achieve climate targets as it is the most polluting fossil fuel.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-lambasts-us-for-backpedalling-on-climate-policies-after-biden-chided-jinping-426346" hreflang="en">China lambasts US for 'backpedalling' on climate policies after Biden chided Jinping</a>

Greenhouse emissions from the burning of coal are the largest contributor to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/climate-change">climate change</a>.

It is widely used because it is cheap and abundant in local supply. Wealthy countries have invested heavily to shift their industries and energy sectors onto cleaner sources.

In 2019, 37 per cent of the world's electricity was produced by coal. Although the global pipeline for new coal power projects has shrivelled in recent years.

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 40 countries have agreed to ''consigning coal to history'' and phase out the world's dirtiest fossil fuel. The agreement in the COP26 summit will help to keep the United Nation's goal to limit global heating to 1.

More than 40 countries have agreed to ''consigning coal to history'' and phase out the world's dirtiest fossil fuel. The agreement in the COP26 summit will help to keep the United Nation's goal to limit global heating to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels alive. ''Today marks a milestone moment in our global efforts to tackle climate change, as nations from all corners of the world unite in Glasgow to declare that coal has no part to play in our future power generation,'' said the UK's business secretary Kwasi Kwarteng. Also read | PM Modi surprises the climate summit by announcing India's goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2070 ''Today’s ambitious commitments made by our international partners demonstrate that the end of coal is in sight.'' Major coal-using countries such as Canada, Poland, Vietnam, and Chile said they would stop building new plants. However, the world's biggest coal-consuming countries such as China and the United States are not part of the deal. Meanwhile, the Powering Past Coal Alliance has also secured 28 new members. It is an international campaign aimed at phasing out the fuel. The US and Britain have announced a partnership worth $8.5 billion with South Africa at the COP26 conference, to help the country phase out coal faster. Phasing out of coal is seen as vital to achieve climate targets as it is the most polluting fossil fuel. Also read | China lambasts US for 'backpedalling' on climate policies after Biden chided Jinping Greenhouse emissions from the burning of coal are the largest contributor to climate change. It is widely used because it is cheap and abundant in local supply. Wealthy countries have invested heavily to shift their industries and energy sectors onto cleaner sources. In 2019, 37 per cent of the world's electricity was produced by coal. Although the global pipeline for new coal power projects has shrivelled in recent years. (With inputs from agencies)

'Consigning coal to history': Over 40 countries agree to phase out dirtiest fossil fuel

Developing countries need up to 10 times more funding to protect themselves from increasingly ferocious effects of climate change than the world has currently earmarked, the UN said on Thursday.&nbsp;

While the COP26 meeting tries to wrestle down emissions and keep warming within the Paris deal target of 1.5 degrees Celsius, a new report from United Nations Environment Programme highlights the need to prepare countries for effects that are already starting to be felt. &nbsp;

"Even if we were to turn off the tap on greenhouse gas emissions today, the impacts of climate change would be with us for many decades to come," said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP.&nbsp;

"We need a step-change in adaptation ambition for funding and implementation to significantly reduce damages and losses from climate change. And we need it now."

Slammed by storms, floods and droughts intensified by global warming, the world's poorest nations have put at the heart of the COP26 climate negotiations calls for richer countries to honour a pledge to provide $100 billion annually.&nbsp;

But only a part of that funding promise -- which is now not set to be met until next year at the earliest -- is set aside for adaptation measures that would help nations reduce the exposure of people and property to the growing threats of climate change. &nbsp;

- 'Skydiving without a parachute' - 
The UNEP report found that developing countries alone will need to spend up to $300 billion a year on such measures by 2030, and up to $500 billion annually by 2050.

"Overall, estimated adaptation costs in developing countries are five to 10 times greater than current public adaptation finance flows, and the gap is widening," UNEP said.

In 2019, wealthy countries provided $79.6 billion in climate assistance to developing countries -- but two-thirds of that was for efforts to reduce emissions, with adaptation given lower priority.

On Monday, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley told COP26 delegates failure to provide nations with the funds to protect themselves and adapt to climate change was "measured in lives and livelihoods in our communities and that, my friends, is immoral and unjust".&nbsp;

With 1.1C of warming since the mid 19th Century, the world has seen a torrent of deadly weather disasters intensified by climate change in recent months, from asphalt-melting heat waves to flash floods and untameable wildfires.

UNEP said governments had so far missed an opportunity to use the Covid-19 pandemic to prioritise green recovery spending.&nbsp;

"By failing to invest in climate adaptation, it seems like we've gone sky diving and decided we don't need a parachute," said Brian O'Callaghan, of the Oxford University economic recovery project and one of the authors of the UNEP report.&nbsp;

Developing countries need up to 10 times more funding to protect themselves from increasingly ferocious effects of climate change than the world has currently earmarked, the UN said on Thursday.

Developing countries need up to 10 times more funding to protect themselves from increasingly ferocious effects of climate change than the world has currently earmarked, the UN said on Thursday. While the COP26 meeting tries to wrestle down emissions and keep warming within the Paris deal target of 1.5 degrees Celsius, a new report from United Nations Environment Programme highlights the need to prepare countries for effects that are already starting to be felt. "Even if we were to turn off the tap on greenhouse gas emissions today, the impacts of climate change would be with us for many decades to come," said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP. "We need a step-change in adaptation ambition for funding and implementation to significantly reduce damages and losses from climate change. And we need it now." Slammed by storms, floods and droughts intensified by global warming, the world's poorest nations have put at the heart of the COP26 climate negotiations calls for richer countries to honour a pledge to provide $100 billion annually. But only a part of that funding promise -- which is now not set to be met until next year at the earliest -- is set aside for adaptation measures that would help nations reduce the exposure of people and property to the growing threats of climate change. - 'Skydiving without a parachute' - The UNEP report found that developing countries alone will need to spend up to $300 billion a year on such measures by 2030, and up to $500 billion annually by 2050. "Overall, estimated adaptation costs in developing countries are five to 10 times greater than current public adaptation finance flows, and the gap is widening," UNEP said. In 2019, wealthy countries provided $79.6 billion in climate assistance to developing countries -- but two-thirds of that was for efforts to reduce emissions, with adaptation given lower priority. On Monday, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley told COP26 delegates failure to provide nations with the funds to protect themselves and adapt to climate change was "measured in lives and livelihoods in our communities and that, my friends, is immoral and unjust". With 1.1C of warming since the mid 19th Century, the world has seen a torrent of deadly weather disasters intensified by climate change in recent months, from asphalt-melting heat waves to flash floods and untameable wildfires. UNEP said governments had so far missed an opportunity to use the Covid-19 pandemic to prioritise green recovery spending. "By failing to invest in climate adaptation, it seems like we've gone sky diving and decided we don't need a parachute," said Brian O'Callaghan, of the Oxford University economic recovery project and one of the authors of the UNEP report.

Climate adaptation cash one tenth of amount needed: UN

The UN's COP26 climate summit has not concluded, the host of the summit and UK PM Boris Johnson has already found himself in the middle of a controversy.

Climate pledges just a gimmick for UK PM Boris Johnson? | COP26

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