1. What was the key decision on adaptation at COP28?
A framework was established to guide nations in protecting people and ecosystems from climate change, advancing the global goal on adaptation (GGA).
2. What is the global goal on adaptation (GGA)?
The GGA aims to elevate adaptation to the same level of importance as mitigation in the UN climate process, a priority for climate-vulnerable countries.
3. What themes are covered under the GGA?
Agreed themes include water, food, health, ecosystems, infrastructure, poverty eradication, and cultural heritage.
4. How is climate adaptation viewed in the context of the GGA?
As a varied and context-specific issue, the GGA is seen as a guiding star for future planning and spending on climate adaptation, without being overly prescriptive.
5. What was the stance of developing countries on adaptation finance?
Developing countries emphasized the need for substantial financial investment for adaptation, which they cannot afford on their own.
6. How significant is the funding gap for adaptation in developing countries?
UNEP estimates that the adaptation finance needs are up to 18 times higher than the current public finance flows from developed countries.
7. What were the contentious issues in GGA negotiations?
Finance and the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities” (CBDR–RC) were the most contentious issues.
8. Were specific targets for adaptation finance included in the GGA?
No, the final text did not include explicit financial targets, and the language around developed countries providing finance was weakened.
SRIRAM’s
