COP26 explained: what is the UK climate conference and why is it so important?
The UK is set to host a summit seen as crucial if climate change is to come under control.
The October 31 to November 12 Glasgow gathering could lead major changes in our everyday lives.
The world is warming because of fossil fuel emissions caused by humans. Extreme weather events like heat waves, floods and forest fires are intensifying. The past decade was the warmest on record.
A total of 200 countries are asked for their plans to cut emissions by 2030. They all concurred in 2015 Paris Agreement to make changes to keep global warming “well below” 2C - aiming for 1.5C - to avoid a climate catastrophe.
Seminar announcements could include ...
■ Making faster switch to electric cars
■ Speeding up coal power phasing out
■ Cutting down fewer trees
■ Protecting more people from climate change impact
Up to 25,000 people are expected among world leaders, negotiators and journalists with tens of thousands of campaigners and businesses also attending before closing declarations are announced.
Commitments could change whether we drive petrol cars, heat our homes with gas boilers or take as many flights.
As host nation, the UK will likely want all countries to back a strong statement recommitting to net zero emissions by 2050 as well as big reductions by 2030.
Every country will be required to sign up to specific commitments. Developing countries tend to pollute less per head of population and are not responsible for most past emissions.
But they need money to help reduce emissions and cope with climate change. There will also be a battle over compensation for developing countries continuing to be affected by climate change.
Wealthy countries previously pledged £720 million a year to help poorer nations by 2020. A UN assessment last year forecast the target is likely to be missed, richer countries asked to commit more cash.