Companies that spent millions of pounds to sponsor the Cop26 climate summit have condemned it as “mismanaged” and “very last minute."

The sponsors include some of Britain’s biggest companies and they have raised formal complaints blaming “very inexperienced” civil servants for delayed decisions, poor communication and a breakdown in relations between the organisers and firm.

Ten major sponsors of the summit include Sky, energy giants Hitachi, National Grid, Scottish Power and SSE, US tech titan Microsoft, and FTSE companies GSK, NatWest, Reckitt, Sainsbury’s and Unilever.&nbsp;

According to a report by The Guardian, a letter has been sent to the organisers, which is written by broadcaster Sky and co-signed by senior leaders from other Cop26 sponsors.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/women-must-play-a-greater-role-at-the-cop26-summit-say-rights-groups-415781">Also read |&nbsp;Women must play a greater role at the Cop26 summit, say rights groups</a>

This has raised concerns with them over various problems. Unilever has denied signing the letter penned by Sky. Other partners include the carmaker Jaguar Land Rover and the furniture retailer Ikea.

Organisers of the Cop26 promised sponsors an “outstanding opportunity” and “unique benefits” in exchange for their support.&nbsp;

This will give them a chance to promote their brands at the conference “green zone” exhibition space and the participation of government ministers at their events.

One source, employed by a Cop26 sponsor said that “the biggest frustration” was the lack of information about how the event will run.&nbsp;

“They had an extra year to prepare for Cop due to Covid, but it doesn’t feel like this time was used to make better progress. Everything feels very last minute," the source was quoted by The Guardian.

There have been complaints about unmet expectations, and deepening concerns over delays to the green zone plans.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop26-uk-to-push-plan-to-halt-and-reverse-global-deforestation-by-2030-421088">Also read |&nbsp;COP26: UK to push plan to halt and reverse global deforestation by 2030</a>

They have also raised complaints that ministers have not always been available for their events, as agreed as part of the sponsor deals.

Energy company sponsors, Hitachi, National Grid, Scottish Power and SSE were particularly frustrated because they were under the impression that no other energy brands would feature at Cop26.&nbsp;

However, the “blue zone”, which is organised by the UN, will include rival brands.

In response, a Cop26 spokesperson has said the organisers were “working closely” with sponsors. This is expected to increase the value-for-money for taxpayers, and reduce the overall financial cost of Cop26.

Companies that spent millions of pounds to sponsor the Cop26 climate summit have condemned it as “mismanaged” and “very last minute." The sponsors include some of Britain’s biggest companies and they have raised formal complaints blaming “very inexperienced” civil servants for delayed decisions, poor communication and a breakdown in relations between the organisers and firm.

Companies that spent millions of pounds to sponsor the Cop26 climate summit have condemned it as “mismanaged” and “very last minute." The sponsors include some of Britain’s biggest companies and they have raised formal complaints blaming “very inexperienced” civil servants for delayed decisions, poor communication and a breakdown in relations between the organisers and firm. Ten major sponsors of the summit include Sky, energy giants Hitachi, National Grid, Scottish Power and SSE, US tech titan Microsoft, and FTSE companies GSK, NatWest, Reckitt, Sainsbury’s and Unilever. According to a report by The Guardian, a letter has been sent to the organisers, which is written by broadcaster Sky and co-signed by senior leaders from other Cop26 sponsors. Also read | Women must play a greater role at the Cop26 summit, say rights groups This has raised concerns with them over various problems. Unilever has denied signing the letter penned by Sky. Other partners include the carmaker Jaguar Land Rover and the furniture retailer Ikea. Organisers of the Cop26 promised sponsors an “outstanding opportunity” and “unique benefits” in exchange for their support. This will give them a chance to promote their brands at the conference “green zone” exhibition space and the participation of government ministers at their events. One source, employed by a Cop26 sponsor said that “the biggest frustration” was the lack of information about how the event will run. “They had an extra year to prepare for Cop due to Covid, but it doesn’t feel like this time was used to make better progress. Everything feels very last minute," the source was quoted by The Guardian. There have been complaints about unmet expectations, and deepening concerns over delays to the green zone plans. Also read | COP26: UK to push plan to halt and reverse global deforestation by 2030 They have also raised complaints that ministers have not always been available for their events, as agreed as part of the sponsor deals. Energy company sponsors, Hitachi, National Grid, Scottish Power and SSE were particularly frustrated because they were under the impression that no other energy brands would feature at Cop26. However, the “blue zone”, which is organised by the UN, will include rival brands. In response, a Cop26 spokesperson has said the organisers were “working closely” with sponsors. This is expected to increase the value-for-money for taxpayers, and reduce the overall financial cost of Cop26.

COP26: Sponsors deem the climate summit as ‘mismanaged’ and 'very last minute'

The UK has come up with an ambitious agreement among world leaders at Cop26, which requires them to halt and reverse forest loss and degradation, reveals a report by The Guardian.&nbsp;

Big producers and consumers of deforestation-linked commodities, which include, soya, cocoa, coffee and palm oil have been asked to halt land clearances, which becomes the second-largest source of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions.&nbsp;

World leaders are expected to announce the initiative on the second day of the climate summit in Glasgow along with new funding to protect forests.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop26-queen-finds-world-leaders-irritating-because-they-only-talk-and-dont-act-420982">Also read |&nbsp;COP26: Queen finds world leaders 'irritating' because they only 'talk' and don't 'act'</a>

A new report in August revealed that deforestation in the Amazon forest has hit the highest annual level in a decade.&nbsp;

Between August 2020 and July 2021, the rainforest lost 10.476 square kilometres, an area nearly seven times bigger than greater London and 13 times the size of New York City, reveals by Imazon, a Brazilian research institute that has been tracking the Amazon deforestation since 2008. The figure is 57 per cent higher than in the previous year and is the worst since 2012.

The aim of Cop26 is to put the world on track to fulfil the 2015 Paris agreement, which binds governments to limit global heating to “well below” 2C, with an aspiration to keep within a 1.5C threshold.&nbsp;

The UK has come up with an ambitious agreement among world leaders at Cop26, which requires them to halt and reverse forest loss and degradation, reveals a report by The Guardian.

The UK has come up with an ambitious agreement among world leaders at Cop26, which requires them to halt and reverse forest loss and degradation, reveals a report by The Guardian. Big producers and consumers of deforestation-linked commodities, which include, soya, cocoa, coffee and palm oil have been asked to halt land clearances, which becomes the second-largest source of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. World leaders are expected to announce the initiative on the second day of the climate summit in Glasgow along with new funding to protect forests. Also read | COP26: Queen finds world leaders 'irritating' because they only 'talk' and don't 'act' A new report in August revealed that deforestation in the Amazon forest has hit the highest annual level in a decade. Between August 2020 and July 2021, the rainforest lost 10.476 square kilometres, an area nearly seven times bigger than greater London and 13 times the size of New York City, reveals by Imazon, a Brazilian research institute that has been tracking the Amazon deforestation since 2008. The figure is 57 per cent higher than in the previous year and is the worst since 2012. The aim of Cop26 is to put the world on track to fulfil the 2015 Paris agreement, which binds governments to limit global heating to “well below” 2C, with an aspiration to keep within a 1.5C threshold.

COP26: UK to push plan to halt and reverse global deforestation by 2030

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has confirmed that he will be attending the crucial COP26 summit in the UK, the confirmation comes after world leaders face mounting pressure over increase in Carbon mission.

Australian PM Scott Morrison to attend COP26 Summit

China has launched a multi-million dollar biodiversity fund for developing countries. The announcement came as president XI Jinping virtually addressed the COP15 biodiversity summit.

China launches its own biodiversity fund; XI Jinping won't attend COP26 summit

After Greta Thunberg, it is now Queen Elizabeth II of England who is tired of world leaders only talking about climate change and not acting on it. The Queen says she finds it "irritating".<o:p></o:p>

A little before world leaders are set to gather in Glasgow for COP26, the Queen has said she is sick of leaders who only "talk" but "don't do" enough about climate change.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/prince-charles-says-his-aston-martin-car-runs-on-cheese-waste-and-wine-twitter-laughs-420134">Prince Charles says his Aston Martin car runs on cheese waste and wine; Twitter laughs</a></o:p>

"Extraordinary isn't it. I've been hearing all about COP... still don't know who is coming. No idea," she, reportedly, told Elin Jones, the parliament’s presiding officer. "We only know about people who are not coming ... It's really irritating when they talk, but they don't do."<o:p></o:p>

The Queen made these comments during a private conversation with the Duchess of Cornwall and Elin Jones, the parliament's presiding officer. <o:p></o:p>

Responding to these apparent comments made by the queen the Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told local media house that comments made in private conversations, should stay private. "I don’t think her comments were for broadcast."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/another-controversy-royal-sources-suggest-meghan-harry-will-not-christen-their-daughter-in-the-uk-420165">Another controversy? Royal sources suggest Meghan, Harry will not christen their daughter in the UK</a>

<o:p></o:p>

However, he also added that like the Queen "we all share the desire to see progress made and we know there will be hundreds of leaders coming to Glasgow for COP."<o:p></o:p>

The Buckingham Palace has, however, declined to comment on the controversy surrounding the Queen’s wordings of the private conversation.<o:p></o:p>

Her reported comments have come a little after her son, Prince Charles, and grandson, Prince William, have also been calling for stronger actions against climate change.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, world leaders are gearing up to meet for COP26 in Glasgow on October 31, 2021. <o:p></o:p>

China’s President Xi Jinping will not be attending this year’s climate summit in person, the office of UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced. Russian leader Vladimir Putin is yet to confirm his presence. However, the Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has confirmed his presence as his government is facing increased pressure over lacking actions against climate change.<o:p></o:p>

After Greta Thunberg, it is now Queen Elizabeth II of England who is tired of world leaders only talking about climate change and not acting on it. The Queen says she finds it "irritating".

After Greta Thunberg, it is now Queen Elizabeth II of England who is tired of world leaders only talking about climate change and not acting on it. The Queen says she finds it "irritating". A little before world leaders are set to gather in Glasgow for COP26, the Queen has said she is sick of leaders who only "talk" but "don't do" enough about climate change. Also read | Prince Charles says his Aston Martin car runs on cheese waste and wine; Twitter laughs "Extraordinary isn't it. I've been hearing all about COP... still don't know who is coming. No idea," she, reportedly, told Elin Jones, the parliament’s presiding officer. "We only know about people who are not coming ... It's really irritating when they talk, but they don't do." The Queen made these comments during a private conversation with the Duchess of Cornwall and Elin Jones, the parliament's presiding officer. Responding to these apparent comments made by the queen the Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told local media house that comments made in private conversations, should stay private. "I don’t think her comments were for broadcast." Also read | Another controversy? Royal sources suggest Meghan, Harry will not christen their daughter in the UK However, he also added that like the Queen "we all share the desire to see progress made and we know there will be hundreds of leaders coming to Glasgow for COP." The Buckingham Palace has, however, declined to comment on the controversy surrounding the Queen’s wordings of the private conversation. Her reported comments have come a little after her son, Prince Charles, and grandson, Prince William, have also been calling for stronger actions against climate change. Meanwhile, world leaders are gearing up to meet for COP26 in Glasgow on October 31, 2021. China’s President Xi Jinping will not be attending this year’s climate summit in person, the office of UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced. Russian leader Vladimir Putin is yet to confirm his presence. However, the Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has confirmed his presence as his government is facing increased pressure over lacking actions against climate change.

COP26: Queen finds world leaders 'irritating' because they only 'talk' and don't 'act'

Chinese President Xi&nbsp;Jinping&nbsp;will snub a crucial climate conference in Scotland, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been told, The Times reported.

Britain, which hosts the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties, or COP26, in Glasgow on October&nbsp;31-November 12, is seeking to get big power support for a more radical plan to tackle climate change.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-xi-jinpings-crackdown-on-everything-418245/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"It is now pretty clear that Xi is not going to turn up and the PM has been told that," The Times quoted an unidentified British source as saying. "What we don’t know is what stance the Chinese are going to take."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rock-solid-white-house-says-us-committed-to-support-taiwan-420819">'Rock solid': White House says US committed to support Taiwan</a>

The Times said British organisers fear that Xi's decision to stay away could be a prelude to China refusing to set new climate change goals amid an energy crunch.

The Chinese embassy in London could not be reached for immediate comment.

Xi, China’s most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, has not left the People's Republic since the beginning of the novel coronavirus pandemic. He has joined video calls with global leaders.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop26-must-address-unprecedented-climate-crisis-pope-francis-warns-418150">Also read |&nbsp;COP26 must address 'unprecedented' climate crisis, Pope Francis warns</a>

China is the world's largest greenhouse gas emitter so Xi's absence from discussions - either in person or via video calls - would mark a setback for Johnson's hopes of getting world leaders to agree a significant climate deal.

Xi, 68, who has served as General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party since 2012, attended the 2015 Paris climate conference.

Britain's Queen Elizabeth has been overheard saying that she was irritated by world leaders who talk about climate change but then do very little or nothing to address the crisis.

"Extraordinary isn’t it. I’ve been hearing all about COP," the 95-year-old monarch told Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, the wife of her son, Charles, Prince of Wales and the presiding officer of the Welsh assembly. "Still don’t know who is coming..."

"It's really irritating when they talk, but they don't do," Elizabeth said in a conversation picked up by a microphone.

Chinese President Xi Jinping will snub a crucial climate conference in Scotland, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been told, The Times reported. Britain, which hosts the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties, or COP26, in Glasgow on October 31-November 12, is seeking to get big power support for a more radical plan to tackle climate change.

Chinese President Xi Jinping will snub a crucial climate conference in Scotland, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been told, The Times reported. Britain, which hosts the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties, or COP26, in Glasgow on October 31-November 12, is seeking to get big power support for a more radical plan to tackle climate change. "It is now pretty clear that Xi is not going to turn up and the PM has been told that," The Times quoted an unidentified British source as saying. "What we don’t know is what stance the Chinese are going to take." Also read | 'Rock solid': White House says US committed to support Taiwan The Times said British organisers fear that Xi's decision to stay away could be a prelude to China refusing to set new climate change goals amid an energy crunch. The Chinese embassy in London could not be reached for immediate comment. Xi, China’s most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, has not left the People's Republic since the beginning of the novel coronavirus pandemic. He has joined video calls with global leaders. Also read | COP26 must address 'unprecedented' climate crisis, Pope Francis warns China is the world's largest greenhouse gas emitter so Xi's absence from discussions - either in person or via video calls - would mark a setback for Johnson's hopes of getting world leaders to agree a significant climate deal. Xi, 68, who has served as General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party since 2012, attended the 2015 Paris climate conference. Britain's Queen Elizabeth has been overheard saying that she was irritated by world leaders who talk about climate change but then do very little or nothing to address the crisis. "Extraordinary isn’t it. I’ve been hearing all about COP," the 95-year-old monarch told Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, the wife of her son, Charles, Prince of Wales and the presiding officer of the Welsh assembly. "Still don’t know who is coming..." "It's really irritating when they talk, but they don't do," Elizabeth said in a conversation picked up by a microphone.

Chinese President Xi Jinping to snub crucial climate conference COP26: Report

Pope Francis warned on Monday warned that the world leaders meeting later this month for a UN climate summit must offer solutions to an "unprecedented ecological crisis."

"COP26 in Glasgow represents an urgent summons to provide effective responses to the unprecedented ecological crisis and the crisis of values that we are presently experiencing, and in this way to offer concrete hope to future generations," Francis said.

Pope is hoping to attend the UN talks and has issued the plea in writing to members of a Vatican-hosted conference called Faith and Science: Towards COP26.

It brought together scientists and religious leaders.

The Vatican participants were due to sign an appeal denouncing the "seeds of conflict -- greed, indifference, ignorance, fear, injustice, insecurity and violence", which in turn "cause the serious wounds we are inflicting on the environment, such as climate change, desertification, pollution and loss of biodiversity", the pope said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/women-must-play-a-greater-role-at-the-cop26-summit-say-rights-groups-415781">Also read |&nbsp;Women must play a greater role at the Cop26 summit, say rights groups</a>

Anglican leader Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, one of the religious leaders attending the Vatican conference, said the world needed "a pilgrimage to a clean economy, which decreases carbon emissions and increases renewable energy development and use".

"We have in the last 100 years declared war on the creation," he said, calling for a "dramatic and rapid change in taxation and trade rules" in favour of a more sustainable economic model.&nbsp;

"The world has just enough time to get this right," he insisted.

Meanwhile, a coalition of feminist groups recently said that women must be enabled to play a greater role at the Cop26 summit.

This is because the needs of women and girls are being overlooked amid the global climate crisis.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-offers-prayers-for-the-victims-of-ecuadors-worst-ever-prison-riot-417925">Also read |&nbsp;Pope Francis offers prayers for the victims of Ecuador's worst-ever prison riot</a>

The Global Women's Assembly for Climate Justice urged for action at the UN general assembly, including demands that world leaders meeting at Cop26, in Glasgow must end fossil fuel expansion and move to 100 per cent renewable energy.

Also, more than 120 groups have signed the call. This also includes demands to promote women’s leadership and equity, protect the rights of indigenous peoples, improve food security, recognise a human right to water, and to protect forests, oceans and other ecosystems.

Pope Francis warned on Monday warned that the world leaders meeting later this month for a UN climate summit must offer solutions to an "unprecedented ecological crisis.

Pope Francis warned on Monday warned that the world leaders meeting later this month for a UN climate summit must offer solutions to an "unprecedented ecological crisis." "COP26 in Glasgow represents an urgent summons to provide effective responses to the unprecedented ecological crisis and the crisis of values that we are presently experiencing, and in this way to offer concrete hope to future generations," Francis said. Pope is hoping to attend the UN talks and has issued the plea in writing to members of a Vatican-hosted conference called Faith and Science: Towards COP26. It brought together scientists and religious leaders. The Vatican participants were due to sign an appeal denouncing the "seeds of conflict -- greed, indifference, ignorance, fear, injustice, insecurity and violence", which in turn "cause the serious wounds we are inflicting on the environment, such as climate change, desertification, pollution and loss of biodiversity", the pope said. Also read | Women must play a greater role at the Cop26 summit, say rights groups Anglican leader Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, one of the religious leaders attending the Vatican conference, said the world needed "a pilgrimage to a clean economy, which decreases carbon emissions and increases renewable energy development and use". "We have in the last 100 years declared war on the creation," he said, calling for a "dramatic and rapid change in taxation and trade rules" in favour of a more sustainable economic model. "The world has just enough time to get this right," he insisted. Meanwhile, a coalition of feminist groups recently said that women must be enabled to play a greater role at the Cop26 summit. This is because the needs of women and girls are being overlooked amid the global climate crisis. Also read | Pope Francis offers prayers for the victims of Ecuador's worst-ever prison riot The Global Women's Assembly for Climate Justice urged for action at the UN general assembly, including demands that world leaders meeting at Cop26, in Glasgow must end fossil fuel expansion and move to 100 per cent renewable energy. Also, more than 120 groups have signed the call. This also includes demands to promote women’s leadership and equity, protect the rights of indigenous peoples, improve food security, recognise a human right to water, and to protect forests, oceans and other ecosystems.

COP26 must address 'unprecedented' climate crisis, Pope Francis warns

Speaking on Saturday afternoon in Milan, Alok Sharma also said the world's leading economies would deliver on their promise to deliver $100 billion a year to poorer countries struggling to deal with climate change.

COP26 presient calls $100 billion climate finance pledge "vital"

A coalition of feminist groups has recently said that women must be enabled to play a greater role at the Cop26 summit.&nbsp;

This is because the needs of women and girls are being overlooked amid the global climate crisis.

The Global Women's Assembly for Climate Justice urged for action at the UN general assembly, including demands that world leaders meeting at Cop26, in Glasgow must end fossil fuel expansion and move to 100 per cent renewable energy.

Also, more than 120 groups have signed the call.&nbsp;

This also includes demands to promote women’s leadership and equity, protect the rights of indigenous peoples, improve food security, recognise a human right to water, and to protect forests, oceans and other ecosystems.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/remote-but-connected-new-zealands-jacinda-ardern-talks-about-covid-climate-change-and-peace-at-unga-415736">Also read |&nbsp;'Remote, but connected': New Zealand's Jacinda Ardern talks about Covid, climate change and peace at UNGA</a>

Osprey Orielle Lake, of the Women’s Earth and Climate Action Network, and convener of the assembly was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "Every day, we can see for ourselves forest fires burning, massive flooding, extreme droughts, people losing their livelihoods and lives– – we are in a global climate emergency.

“As the world prepares for one of the most important climate talks since the Paris agreement, we know solutions exist, and that women are leading the way.”

Many of the remedies to the climate crisis would also benefit women.&nbsp;

Like, replacing cooking fires with solar stoves would reduce indoor air pollution that affects women and children more as they spend more time at home.&nbsp;

Also, bringing clean renewable energy to low-income countries would enable more women and girls to gain access to education.

A coalition of feminist groups has recently said that women must be enabled to play a greater role at the Cop26 summit. This is because the needs of women and girls are being overlooked amid the global climate crisis.

A coalition of feminist groups has recently said that women must be enabled to play a greater role at the Cop26 summit. This is because the needs of women and girls are being overlooked amid the global climate crisis. The Global Women's Assembly for Climate Justice urged for action at the UN general assembly, including demands that world leaders meeting at Cop26, in Glasgow must end fossil fuel expansion and move to 100 per cent renewable energy. Also, more than 120 groups have signed the call. This also includes demands to promote women’s leadership and equity, protect the rights of indigenous peoples, improve food security, recognise a human right to water, and to protect forests, oceans and other ecosystems. Also read | 'Remote, but connected': New Zealand's Jacinda Ardern talks about Covid, climate change and peace at UNGA Osprey Orielle Lake, of the Women’s Earth and Climate Action Network, and convener of the assembly was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "Every day, we can see for ourselves forest fires burning, massive flooding, extreme droughts, people losing their livelihoods and lives– – we are in a global climate emergency. “As the world prepares for one of the most important climate talks since the Paris agreement, we know solutions exist, and that women are leading the way.” Many of the remedies to the climate crisis would also benefit women. Like, replacing cooking fires with solar stoves would reduce indoor air pollution that affects women and children more as they spend more time at home. Also, bringing clean renewable energy to low-income countries would enable more women and girls to gain access to education.

Women must play a greater role at the Cop26 summit, say rights groups

According to reports, Chinese President Xi Jinping is yet to confirm his participation in the climate change summit <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-run-up-to-cop26-summit-glasgow-records-hottest-summer-410318">COP26</a> in Glasgow.

UK PM Boris Johnson had said earlier that forcing wealthy nations to honour the UN's climate fund pledge will "be a stretch" as the world seeks to address the issue.

China is the world's biggest polluter and the success of the COP26 meeting hinges on China's participation and agreement over climate proposal.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/glasgow-climate-summit-at-risk-of-failure-states-un-chief-413810/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

British cabinet minister and the summit's president Alok Sharma speaking to a British television channel informed that he was in China recently and had a detailed discussion on cutting emissions and "phasing down the use of coal" in the country.

"The ball is very much in their court," Alok Sharma added while referring to China as he informed that every major economy has committed to "ambitious plans" to cut <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-change-summit-cop26s-president-alok-sharma-flew-to-30-countries-in-7-months-403428">emissions</a>. The high profile COP26 conference will begin on October 31 in Glasgow, Scotland.

The United Nations had warned recently that the world remains behind in its goal to cut emissions. According to a report by Clean Air Fund, fossil fuel projects get more funding than clean air initiatives even as the UN and WHO have repeatedly said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/air-pollution-leads-to-increased-mental-illness-and-decreases-intelligence-study-408854">air pollution</a> is one of the biggest environmental problems in the world.

The report said China had received huge funding from the government as part of its "war against pollution" after the country's air quality index hit dangerous levels in 2013.

Reports say nearly 60 per cent of China's economy is fuelled by coal and despite pledges&nbsp;the country reportedly ordered 38.4 gigawatts of new coal-fired power into operation last year.

Chinse authorities&nbsp;had said earlier that they were "playing a national game of chess" to balance the country's gigantic&nbsp;economy&nbsp;with climate change goals.

(With inputs from Agencies)

According to reports, Chinese President Xi Jinping is yet to confirm his participation in the climate change summit COP26 in Glasgow. UK PM Boris Johnson had said earlier that forcing wealthy nations to honour the UN's climate fund pledge will "be a stretch" as the world seeks to address the issue.

According to reports, Chinese President Xi Jinping is yet to confirm his participation in the climate change summit COP26 in Glasgow. UK PM Boris Johnson had said earlier that forcing wealthy nations to honour the UN's climate fund pledge will "be a stretch" as the world seeks to address the issue. China is the world's biggest polluter and the success of the COP26 meeting hinges on China's participation and agreement over climate proposal. Watch: British cabinet minister and the summit's president Alok Sharma speaking to a British television channel informed that he was in China recently and had a detailed discussion on cutting emissions and "phasing down the use of coal" in the country. "The ball is very much in their court," Alok Sharma added while referring to China as he informed that every major economy has committed to "ambitious plans" to cut emissions. The high profile COP26 conference will begin on October 31 in Glasgow, Scotland. The United Nations had warned recently that the world remains behind in its goal to cut emissions. According to a report by Clean Air Fund, fossil fuel projects get more funding than clean air initiatives even as the UN and WHO have repeatedly said air pollution is one of the biggest environmental problems in the world. The report said China had received huge funding from the government as part of its "war against pollution" after the country's air quality index hit dangerous levels in 2013. Reports say nearly 60 per cent of China's economy is fuelled by coal and despite pledges the country reportedly ordered 38.4 gigawatts of new coal-fired power into operation last year. Chinse authorities had said earlier that they were "playing a national game of chess" to balance the country's gigantic economy with climate change goals. (With inputs from Agencies)

President Xi yet to confirm attendance in Cop26 climate conference

As it prepares to host United Nations' Cop26 climate summit, Glasgow has experienced hottest summer on record, as per the Met Office. In the month of August, Scotland also recorded the highest temperature in the UK.

This broke England's 20 year run for having the hottest day in the UK. This time around, rainfall in Scotland was 62 per cent of its usual average making it a drier than usual summer.

Global Warming is a key issue that will certainly be addressed in the Cop26 summit in Glasgow. Global warming has led to extreme weather patterns in recent years including 2021 so far. Summer this year in the UK was among the hottest 10 ever recorded.

Across the world, the effects of global warming were seen. Record breaking heatwave in northwestern North America, heavy floods in Germany and China bear testimony to that.

As it prepares to host United Nations' Cop26 climate summit, Glasgow has experienced hottest summer on record, as per the Met Office. In the month of August, Scotland also recorded the highest temperature in the UK.

As it prepares to host United Nations' Cop26 climate summit, Glasgow has experienced hottest summer on record, as per the Met Office. In the month of August, Scotland also recorded the highest temperature in the UK. This broke England's 20 year run for having the hottest day in the UK. This time around, rainfall in Scotland was 62 per cent of its usual average making it a drier than usual summer. Global Warming is a key issue that will certainly be addressed in the Cop26 summit in Glasgow. Global warming has led to extreme weather patterns in recent years including 2021 so far. Summer this year in the UK was among the hottest 10 ever recorded. Across the world, the effects of global warming were seen. Record breaking heatwave in northwestern North America, heavy floods in Germany and China bear testimony to that.

In run up to Cop26 summit, Glasgow records hottest summer

British COP26 president Alok Sharma described a forthcoming UN report about climate change in stark terms; as&nbsp;offering the international community&nbsp;its clearest warning about the risks of accelerating climate change.

An Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report to be released on Monday will show that the world is on the brink of a disaster, the chief for the November summit in Glasgow told the Observer newspaper.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earths-vital-signs-are-worsening-due-to-climate-change-scientists-warn-401135">Earth's 'vital signs' are worsening due to climate change, scientists warn</a>

"This is going to be the starkest warning yet that human behaviour is alarmingly accelerating global warming and this is why COP26 has to be the moment we get this right," Sharma said.

Two years, five years, ten years won't suffice, this is the time, he explained, adding that without countries taking action now, time will soon run out.

As Britain strives to galvanise international action on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/climate-change">climate change</a>, Sharma was forced to defend the country's own fossil-fuel projects, which include plans to license new oil and gas fields in the North Sea.

"Future (fossil fuel) licences are going to have to adhere to the fact we have committed to go to net zero by 2050 in legislation," the COP26 president said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/our-response-to-climate-change-is-missing-something-big-scientists-say-390706">Our response to climate change is missing something big, scientists say</a>

"There will be a climate check on any licences," he added.

Paris-based watchdog International Energy Agency (IAE) has warned that fossil fuel exploration and development must cease this year in order to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees celsius.

In recent weeks there have been a number of natural disasters, including floods and fires around the world, including in Europe and Asia. Sharma said these issues have drawn attention to the issue of global warming.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heres-an-idea-to-reverse-climate-change-alter-the-orbit-of-the-moon-390689">Here's an idea to reverse climate change: Alter the orbit of the Moon</a>

"We're seeing the impacts across the world," Sharma said. "Every day you will see a new high being recorded in one way or another across the world," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

British COP26 president Alok Sharma described a forthcoming UN report about climate change in stark terms; as offering the international community its clearest warning about the risks of accelerating climate change.

British COP26 president Alok Sharma described a forthcoming UN report about climate change in stark terms; as offering the international community its clearest warning about the risks of accelerating climate change. An Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report to be released on Monday will show that the world is on the brink of a disaster, the chief for the November summit in Glasgow told the Observer newspaper. Also read | Earth's 'vital signs' are worsening due to climate change, scientists warn "This is going to be the starkest warning yet that human behaviour is alarmingly accelerating global warming and this is why COP26 has to be the moment we get this right," Sharma said. Two years, five years, ten years won't suffice, this is the time, he explained, adding that without countries taking action now, time will soon run out. As Britain strives to galvanise international action on climate change, Sharma was forced to defend the country's own fossil-fuel projects, which include plans to license new oil and gas fields in the North Sea. "Future (fossil fuel) licences are going to have to adhere to the fact we have committed to go to net zero by 2050 in legislation," the COP26 president said. Also read | Our response to climate change is missing something big, scientists say "There will be a climate check on any licences," he added. Paris-based watchdog International Energy Agency (IAE) has warned that fossil fuel exploration and development must cease this year in order to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees celsius. In recent weeks there have been a number of natural disasters, including floods and fires around the world, including in Europe and Asia. Sharma said these issues have drawn attention to the issue of global warming. Also read | Here's an idea to reverse climate change: Alter the orbit of the Moon "We're seeing the impacts across the world," Sharma said. "Every day you will see a new high being recorded in one way or another across the world," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Upcoming UN climate report presents 'starkest warning yet'

UK's COP26 President Alok Sharma said on Friday that the world must act now to slow global warming otherwise there will be a climate catastrophe. He also said that if we do not act now, the science tells us these effects will become more frequent and more brutal, that we will witness a scale of global catastrophe the likes of which the world has not seen.

UK's COP26 Chief says world must act now to avoid climate catastrophe

Legendary conversationist and filmmaker Sir David Attenborough has warned the world of challenges&nbsp;far more severe than COVID-19, in the next five to 10 years.

“The epidemic has shown us how crucial it is to find agreement among nations if we are to solve such worldwide problems. But the problems that await us within the next 5-10 years are even greater. It is crucial that these meetings in Glasgow, COP26, have success, and that at last, the nations will come together to solve the crippling problems that the world now faces,” Attenborough said.

On May 10, Britain has tasked&nbsp;Attenborough with inspiring action to tackle the issue of climate change as its People’s Advocate ahead of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in November in Glasgow, Scotland.&nbsp;

Alok Sharma, an Indian-origin Cabinet-level minister in the British government, will be the president of the COP26. Sharma termed climate change as the greatest threat facing mankind.

COP26 could accelerate measures by the world's biggest polluters to tackle climate change, which activists, scientists and world leaders say could ultimately endanger the planet. &nbsp;

Attenborough, who is 95 years old, exhorted world leaders to seize the moment given by this pandemic to reach and operationalize international agreements on major issues that concern climate change.

(With inputs from agencies)

Legendary conversationist and filmmaker Sir David Attenborough has warned the world of challenges far more severe than COVID-19, in the next five to 10 years. “The epidemic has shown us how crucial it is to find agreement among nations if we are to solve such worldwide problems.

Legendary conversationist and filmmaker Sir David Attenborough has warned the world of challenges far more severe than COVID-19, in the next five to 10 years. “The epidemic has shown us how crucial it is to find agreement among nations if we are to solve such worldwide problems. But the problems that await us within the next 5-10 years are even greater. It is crucial that these meetings in Glasgow, COP26, have success, and that at last, the nations will come together to solve the crippling problems that the world now faces,” Attenborough said. On May 10, Britain has tasked Attenborough with inspiring action to tackle the issue of climate change as its People’s Advocate ahead of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in November in Glasgow, Scotland. Alok Sharma, an Indian-origin Cabinet-level minister in the British government, will be the president of the COP26. Sharma termed climate change as the greatest threat facing mankind. COP26 could accelerate measures by the world's biggest polluters to tackle climate change, which activists, scientists and world leaders say could ultimately endanger the planet. Attenborough, who is 95 years old, exhorted world leaders to seize the moment given by this pandemic to reach and operationalize international agreements on major issues that concern climate change. (With inputs from agencies)

World will soon see challenges more severe than COVID-19: David Attenborough

Britain has tasked naturalist David Attenborough with inspiring action to tackle the issue of climate change as its People’s Advocate ahead of the United Nations’ Climate Change Conference (COP26) in November in Glasgow, Scotland.&nbsp;

COP26 could accelerate measures by the world's biggest polluters to tackle climate change, which activists, scientists and world leaders say could ultimately endanger the planet. &nbsp;

Britain holds the presidency of the conference this year.&nbsp;

Attenborough, 95, the world's most influential wildlife broadcaster, will exhort leaders at events over the next six months to put climate and the protection of nature at the top of their agenda, including at the Group of Seven summit in Cornwall, southwest England, in June, the UK government said on Monday.&nbsp;

He has also been invited to address world leaders and the public at the Glasgow summit, which has been billed as the most important climate meeting since the Paris Agreement in 2015.&nbsp;

“David Attenborough has already inspired millions of people in the UK and around the world with his passion and knowledge to act on climate change and protect the planet for future generations. There is no better person to build momentum for further change as we approach the COP26 climate summit in November,” said Prime Minister Boris Johnson.&nbsp;

Johnson, who is keen to burnish his environmental credentials, has said he will push leaders at the G7 summit he will chair to make firm climate commitments.&nbsp;

Attenborough said COP26 had to succeed.&nbsp;

“There could not be a more important moment that we should have international agreement. The epidemic has shown us how crucial it is to find agreement among nations if we are to solve such worldwide problems," he said.&nbsp;

In February, Attenborough told the UN Security Council that climate change is the biggest security threat that modern humans have ever faced. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Britain has tasked naturalist David Attenborough with inspiring action to tackle the issue of climate change as its People’s Advocate ahead of the United Nations’ Climate Change Conference (COP26) in November in Glasgow, Scotland.

Britain has tasked naturalist David Attenborough with inspiring action to tackle the issue of climate change as its People’s Advocate ahead of the United Nations’ Climate Change Conference (COP26) in November in Glasgow, Scotland. COP26 could accelerate measures by the world's biggest polluters to tackle climate change, which activists, scientists and world leaders say could ultimately endanger the planet. Britain holds the presidency of the conference this year. Attenborough, 95, the world's most influential wildlife broadcaster, will exhort leaders at events over the next six months to put climate and the protection of nature at the top of their agenda, including at the Group of Seven summit in Cornwall, southwest England, in June, the UK government said on Monday. He has also been invited to address world leaders and the public at the Glasgow summit, which has been billed as the most important climate meeting since the Paris Agreement in 2015. “David Attenborough has already inspired millions of people in the UK and around the world with his passion and knowledge to act on climate change and protect the planet for future generations. There is no better person to build momentum for further change as we approach the COP26 climate summit in November,” said Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Johnson, who is keen to burnish his environmental credentials, has said he will push leaders at the G7 summit he will chair to make firm climate commitments. Attenborough said COP26 had to succeed. “There could not be a more important moment that we should have international agreement. The epidemic has shown us how crucial it is to find agreement among nations if we are to solve such worldwide problems," he said. In February, Attenborough told the UN Security Council that climate change is the biggest security threat that modern humans have ever faced. (With inputs from agencies)

David Attenborough named COP26 People’s Advocate ahead of key climate summit 

Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson on February 4 said the UK is calling for net-zero CO2 emissions as soon as possible. The UK's new 2035 target for ending gas and diesel sales is one of the world's more ambitious.

UK plans to ban sale of diesel vehicles by 2035

2020 is the most crucial year yet for humanity's plan to dodge the bullet of catastrophic global warming, experts said Saturday, warning that the narrow path to safety was riddled with pitfalls, from the US election to Brexit.&nbsp;

When nations struck the 2015 Paris agreement, which aims to limit temperature rises under 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit), they agreed on five-year periods in which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anger-erupts-at-un-climate-summit-as-major-economies-resist-bold-action-268332">climate action</a> could be implemented, assessed and boosted.&nbsp;

2020 is the year the landmark deal goes into effect, yet almost three decades of diplomatic wrangling has fallen far short of what science says is needed to avert disastrous climate change.

A crucial UN summit at which leaders will finalise their action plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is set to open in Glasgow on November 9&nbsp;just six days after a US general election that could see President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/texass-greg-abbott-becomes-first-to-refuse-refugees-order-given-by-president-donald-trump-273510">Donald Trump</a> win a second term.

Trump shocked the world in 2017 when he said the United States,&nbsp;history's largest emitter&nbsp;was withdrawing from the Paris agreement.&nbsp;It is due to leave the deal on November 4.

"Another four years of Trump in the White House would mean that the world's key country in terms of providing global leadership will be sitting the problem out," Michael Oppenheimer, professor of Geosciences and International Affairs at Princeton University, told reporters.&nbsp;

"So that's four years of having a millstone around the neck of the world's efforts to deal with climate change."

After a year of climate-related disasters, from cyclones and flooding in Africa and Southeast Asia to devastating <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/next-few-hours-could-be-very-challenging-australia-urges-people-to-flee-as-bushfires-rage-273400">wildfires</a> in Australia and California, nations in December failed to make progress during the annual UN Climate Change Conference COP 25.&nbsp;

More than 100 countries have pledged to redouble their efforts to reduce domestic emissions, but the biggest polluters, China, India, the US and the European Union have yet to unveil new plans.

The Paris deal was dragged partly over the line thanks to more than a year of shuttle diplomacy by host France.&nbsp;

Climate negotiations are multilateral and emissions cuts voluntary, so much depends on the skill and tactics of the country in charge of annual COP negotiating sessions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-talks-with-uks-boris-johnson-pm-modi-resolves-to-work-closely-together-269028">COP26</a> president Claire O'Neill told reporters last month that climate would be the British government's "number one global priority" this year leading up to the Glasgow summit.

But there are fears that Brexit trade negotiations with Brussels, which will last until around the same time as COP26, will drain much-needed diplomatic bandwidth.&nbsp;

"There is a Brexit scenario in which the UK is distracted at the highest level and the relationship with the EU has soured," said Nick Mabey, CEO of the green thinktank E3G.

"It's a risk. Brexit is the government's number one defensive diplomatic priority and I would say COP needs to be its number one offensive diplomatic priority.&nbsp;

"COP&nbsp;requires huge, proactive campaigning, full-functioning diplomatic machine," he told reporters.&nbsp;

Mabey said Britain already had more than 100 diplomats focusing solely on climate ahead of Glasgow.

But perhaps the biggest moment for the climate in 2020 will come before both the US election or the COP.&nbsp;

In September, the EU-China summit in Leipzig is likely to see the world's largest single market push the world's biggest carbon polluter for greater emissions-cutting commitments.

Li Shuo, the senior global policy advisor for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/children-ready-to-lead-fight-against-pollution-as-climate-crisis-claims-over-9-lakh-lives-since-2016-262150">Greenpeace East Asia</a>, said this year presented a massive opportunity for China to show global leadership over climate.

"The US, China, EU climate tricycle has had a wheel pulled off by Trump," said Li Shuo, senior global policy advisor for Greenpeace East Asia.&nbsp;

"Going into 2020 it is critical for the two remaining wheels to roll in sync.

"The decision was taken by Chinese leaders over the next year,&nbsp;matters to how the world views China under increasingly turbulent geopolitics," Shuo said.

China and fellow emitter India was accused of stymying greater ambition at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-russia-unveils-new-climate-plan-272712">COP25</a> in Madrid by insisting they had already done their fair share in cutting carbon pollution.&nbsp;

Even if nations can agree in Glasgow to boost action during the next five years, their voluntary pledges are likely to be worlds apart from the drastic emissions cuts that Earth needs.

"Something called success is probably off the table for the moment," said Mabey.

2020 is the most crucial year yet for humanity's plan to dodge the bullet of catastrophic global warming, experts said Saturday, warning that the narrow path to safety was riddled with pitfalls, from the US election to Brexit.

2020 is the most crucial year yet for humanity's plan to dodge the bullet of catastrophic global warming, experts said Saturday, warning that the narrow path to safety was riddled with pitfalls, from the US election to Brexit. When nations struck the 2015 Paris agreement, which aims to limit temperature rises under 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit), they agreed on five-year periods in which climate action could be implemented, assessed and boosted. 2020 is the year the landmark deal goes into effect, yet almost three decades of diplomatic wrangling has fallen far short of what science says is needed to avert disastrous climate change. A crucial UN summit at which leaders will finalise their action plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is set to open in Glasgow on November 9 just six days after a US general election that could see President Donald Trump win a second term. Trump shocked the world in 2017 when he said the United States, history's largest emitter was withdrawing from the Paris agreement. It is due to leave the deal on November 4. "Another four years of Trump in the White House would mean that the world's key country in terms of providing global leadership will be sitting the problem out," Michael Oppenheimer, professor of Geosciences and International Affairs at Princeton University, told reporters. "So that's four years of having a millstone around the neck of the world's efforts to deal with climate change." After a year of climate-related disasters, from cyclones and flooding in Africa and Southeast Asia to devastating wildfires in Australia and California, nations in December failed to make progress during the annual UN Climate Change Conference COP 25. More than 100 countries have pledged to redouble their efforts to reduce domestic emissions, but the biggest polluters, China, India, the US and the European Union have yet to unveil new plans. The Paris deal was dragged partly over the line thanks to more than a year of shuttle diplomacy by host France. Climate negotiations are multilateral and emissions cuts voluntary, so much depends on the skill and tactics of the country in charge of annual COP negotiating sessions. COP26 president Claire O'Neill told reporters last month that climate would be the British government's "number one global priority" this year leading up to the Glasgow summit. But there are fears that Brexit trade negotiations with Brussels, which will last until around the same time as COP26, will drain much-needed diplomatic bandwidth. "There is a Brexit scenario in which the UK is distracted at the highest level and the relationship with the EU has soured," said Nick Mabey, CEO of the green thinktank E3G. "It's a risk. Brexit is the government's number one defensive diplomatic priority and I would say COP needs to be its number one offensive diplomatic priority. "COP requires huge, proactive campaigning, full-functioning diplomatic machine," he told reporters. Mabey said Britain already had more than 100 diplomats focusing solely on climate ahead of Glasgow. But perhaps the biggest moment for the climate in 2020 will come before both the US election or the COP. In September, the EU-China summit in Leipzig is likely to see the world's largest single market push the world's biggest carbon polluter for greater emissions-cutting commitments. Li Shuo, the senior global policy advisor for Greenpeace East Asia, said this year presented a massive opportunity for China to show global leadership over climate. "The US, China, EU climate tricycle has had a wheel pulled off by Trump," said Li Shuo, senior global policy advisor for Greenpeace East Asia. "Going into 2020 it is critical for the two remaining wheels to roll in sync. "The decision was taken by Chinese leaders over the next year, matters to how the world views China under increasingly turbulent geopolitics," Shuo said. China and fellow emitter India was accused of stymying greater ambition at COP25 in Madrid by insisting they had already done their fair share in cutting carbon pollution. Even if nations can agree in Glasgow to boost action during the next five years, their voluntary pledges are likely to be worlds apart from the drastic emissions cuts that Earth needs. "Something called success is probably off the table for the moment," said Mabey.

Climate at mercy of politics in 2020, experts warn

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