The TEMA Foundation, in a statement following the conclusion of the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Baku, emphasized that global financial targets in the fight against the climate crisis have been insufficient. The Foundation pointed out that time is running out for Turkey and concrete steps, such as phasing out coal, must be taken in national climate policies.

At the summit, which had “climate finance” as its main agenda, TEMA Foundation stated that countries responsible for the increasing negative effects of the climate crisis have failed to fulfill their historical obligations. The Foundation also highlighted that while the New Collective Quantifiable Goal (NCQG) discussed at COP29 could serve as a reference point for the countries most affected by the climate crisis, the financing needed to address it, which should be around one trillion dollars annually by 2030, was limited to a target of only 300 billion dollars.

“The demand for climate justice is rising”

Deniz Ataç, Chairman of the Board of TEMA Foundation, evaluated the summit by stating, “Countries that view nature as a raw material depot and labor as cheap labor, and have grown their industries and economies through fossil fuels, triggered the climate crisis. Regions that are almost completely blameless in this crisis are paying the heaviest price. However, these countries, which have enriched themselves through fossil fuel use, are obligated to compensate for the damage they caused.”

Ataç emphasized that the demands for climate justice from poor and vulnerable regions, which face floods, droughts, and extreme weather events caused by emissions, are increasing daily. He added, “Today, while major oil and gas companies earn 400 billion dollars in profit annually, the 300 billion dollar target falls far below this reality.”

Where Do Turkey’s Energy and Climate Policies Stand?

Deniz Ataç highlighted that although Turkey was the third country with the largest participation at COP29, it stood out for its deficiencies in national climate and energy policies. Ataç noted that the 2053 Long-Term Climate Strategy (LTS) and the 2024-2028 Energy Strategic Plan, announced at the summit, did not include concrete targets for phasing out coal or fossil fuels. He emphasized, “The net-zero emissions target set for 2053 cannot be achieved without a coal exit plan. The Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources’ 2024-2028 Strategic Plan clearly indicates that coal and other fossil fuel exploration activities will continue, and coal-based electricity generation will persist.”

Ataç also pointed out that the targets for nuclear energy are unsustainable, saying, “While the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant is planned to reach full capacity by 2028, the goal is for Turkey to have a 7.2 GW nuclear energy capacity by 2035. However, nuclear energy projects are not a sustainable option due to their environmental risks and high costs. Turkey must transition to renewable energy as soon as possible and announce a plan for phasing out coal.”

Fossil Fuels Must Be Abandoned to Meet the 1.5°C Target

Ataç stressed that limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C is becoming increasingly difficult, which could lead ecosystems and societies to irreversible tipping points. Citing data from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), he noted that current policies are pushing the world toward a 3°C rise, and Climate Action Tracker projections suggest a 2.7°C increase by the end of this century. He stated, “By accelerating its transition to renewable energy and abandoning fossil fuels and nuclear projects, Turkey could lead the way to a clean future. The decisions and shortcomings from COP29 have once again highlighted how urgent this transformation is.”

“We Cannot Afford to Delay Climate Justice”

Despite the underwhelming outcomes of COP29, Ataç emphasized that protecting natural resources is indispensable for a livable planet. He said, “At TEMA Foundation, we continually stress that a sustainable future is impossible without balancing conservation and usage. We no longer have the luxury of delay. We must urgently act to protect our land, water, air, and biodiversity. We believe that cooperation across all sectors of society will significantly contribute to creating a life model in harmony with nature. In the fight against the climate crisis, existing policies must be strengthened without delay. The right decisions we make today will determine our future and help us achieve climate justice.”

For the full COP29 assessment: https://bit.ly/41fbDt2