The next critical United Nations global climate summit already has a vibes problem — almost a year before it starts on Nov. 30, Ben writes.
Catch up fast: Activist groups are mad that the United Arab Emirates, this year’s host, just named the head of state oil giant Adnoc to lead the talks.
Sultan al-Jaber has been UAE climate envoy since 2010 and he’s chairman of renewables heavyweight Masdar, but his Adnoc role is spurring an outcry.
What they’re saying: “This is a truly breathtaking conflict of interest,” Oil Change International’s Romain Ioualalen said in a statement.
Ioualalen said it’s like having a tobacco boss negotiating an anti-smoking treaty.
The other side: UAE officials say the scope of al-Jaber’s business and diplomatic experience makes him well-positioned to guide the talks.
- The Atlantic Council president Fred Kempe tells CNBC it’s a “brilliant” choice.
- “He, in one person, brings together climate and fossil fuels,” he said.
What we’re watching: Keep an eye on how diplomats from other countries greet the UAE move.
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