Switzerland's chief negotiator comments on climate conference

It was one of the most disappointing climate conferences ever. Felix Vertelly, head of the Swiss delegation, accused host Azerbaijan of insufficient leadership.

Stephanie Schneederiger/ch media

Until recently, it was highly uncertain whether climate conferences could reach an agreement. No one is really happy with the outcome right now. Observers spoke of the minimal compromises and decisions that characterize the fossil fuel lobby. The Swiss development policy association Southern Alliance wrote that it was “very disappointing”.

The poorest countries especially face the consequences of climate change Image: trapezoid

Like last year, Felix Wertli represented Switzerland in Baku (Azerbaijan). We asked him what difficulties he had this year. He said: “The economic growth of some countries such as Saudi Arabia has slowed down significantly. And the host country Azerbaijan has shown too little leadership.” Especially when it comes to phasing out fossil fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas: “For the phase-out Fossil fuels and, most importantly, a lack of confirmation on how to enhance implementation. ”

U.S. election affects negotiations

It is positive that States Parties have tripled their financing targets to support countries in the Global South in their fight against climate change. In the future, $300 billion will flow to poorer countries, compared with only $100 billion before. “In fact, $1.3 trillion must be invested every year in developing countries so that they can implement climate protection plans,” Wertli said.

Felix Wertli, head of the Swiss delegation.Image: zvg

In this way, he got to know the perspective of the poorest countries, who were disappointed with the results. But: “We have to be realistic,” the environment ambassador said. Writing down a “fantasy amount” in the final document that will ultimately never be paid doesn’t help anyone. “$300 billion is ambitious, but possible.” However, observers criticized the money as coming too late. It won't all be in place until 2035.

Whatley said the fact that the United States may withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement again next year also played a role in determining the amount. President-elect Donald Trump already did this during his first term and is now announcing it. “We obviously took that into consideration during the negotiation process. Without the United States, there would be a lack of major donors,” Wortley said.

He believes the 1.5-degree target is achievable. But to do this, countries must improve their national climate protection plans, which must be submitted by 2025. He hopes there will be more positive momentum with a shared vision again at next year's climate conference in Brazil. (aargauerzeitung.ch)

In France, “unusual” overnight high temperatures were recorded on Monday night for November. For example, in Pau, in the Pyrenees-Atlantiques, temperatures were measured at over 26 degrees.