Amid the ongoing UN climate talks in Dubai, Sultan Al-Jaber, the president of COP28, found himself embroiled in controversy following remarks that appeared to challenge a core aspect of climate science. Al-Jaber faced criticism after comments that seemingly downplayed the necessity of halting fossil fuels usage to cap global temperature rise at 1.5 degrees Celsius, as reported by CNN.

Addressing the issue on Monday, Al-Jaber vehemently reaffirmed his commitment to climate science, dismissing claims of disregarding its significance. “We very much believe and respect the science,” he stressed during a news conference, as reported by Bloomberg, refuting suggestions indicating otherwise.

The debate stemmed from Al-Jaber’s earlier statements questioning the direct correlation between phasing out fossil fuels and achieving the 1.5-degree target. His remarks during a virtual session with Mary Robinson, former UN special envoy for climate change, sparked a heated exchange.

Al-Jaber contended, “There is no scenario out there that says the phase-out of fossil fuel is what’s going to achieve 1.5 degrees,” CNN reported.

In the face of mounting scrutiny, Al-Jaber defended his stance, emphasizing the critical need for a structured, just, and responsible transition away from fossil fuels. Acknowledging the essentiality of discontinuing reliance on fossil fuels, he underscored the necessity for a well-designed roadmap facilitating sustainable socio-economic development, as cited by BBC.

Al-Jaber’s presidency of COP28 has garnered attention due to his dual roles in both the UAE’s renewables sector and its state-owned Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC). Despite the contentious discourse, Al-Jaber remains steadfast in aligning climate strategies with scientific imperatives and ensuring a structured shift away from fossil fuels.