The Impact of COP28: A Catalyst for Environmental Change?

Understanding COP: A Brief History

Before we dive into the specifics of COP28, let's take a moment to understand the origins and significance of this event. COP, which stands for "Conference of the Parties," brings together countries that signed the original UN climate agreement in 1992. These annual meetings serve as a platform for governments to discuss strategies to limit and adapt to climate change.

COP28: Shaping Our Environmental Future

COP28 was particularly crucial, following a year marked by extreme weather events and shattered climate records. The summit aimed to keep alive the ambitious goal set in Paris in 2015 — limiting long-term global temperature rises to 1.5°C. This target, as emphasised by the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), is essential to mitigate the most damaging impacts of climate change.

The discussions at COP28 revolved around fast-tracking the transition to clean energy and securing funding for climate action in developing nations.

Results of COP28

The outcome of COP28 represents a historic moment in the global fight against climate change. The agreement, for the first time, officially calls on all countries to move away from using fossil fuels, signalling the beginning of the end of the fossil fuel era. However, it falls short of mandating a complete phase-out, something many governments wanted.

Despite criticisms and concerns about the agreement's strength, the COP28 president expressed optimism, stating that nations had "confronted realities" and set the world in the right direction. This significant step towards reducing reliance on fossil fuels could be a pivotal moment in the transition to a sustainable future.

Image 2 by Eelco Böhtlingk on Unsplash

IB Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS)

At Save My Exams, we recognise the importance of educating the next generation on environmental issues. Our commitment to supporting students in this subject area begins with the IB Environmental Systems and Societies course. Studying ESS allows students to deepen their understanding of the intricate connections between ecosystems, societies, and the impact of human activities on the environment.

In our newly launched IB ESS revision materials, including revision notes and topic questions, students can explore the historical context of the environmental movement. By understanding how events like COP28 contribute to shaping global policies, students gain valuable insights into the practical applications of environmental principles.

Visit Save My Exams for the latest IB ESS resources, and embark on your journey to becoming an advocate for environmental change - together, let's empower the next generation to make informed decisions and contribute to a more sustainable future!

IB ESS at Save My Exams

If you're contemplating IB ESS as one of your subject options next year, explore our resources to help you decide if it aligns with your interests. IB ESS is one of only two interdisciplinary subjects, allowing students the flexibility to count it as either a Group 3 (individuals and societies) or Group 4 (sciences) course. This unique interdisciplinary approach gives students the opportunity to study additional subjects from any group, enhancing their academic experience and broadening their perspectives.