When global climate talks fall short, local solutions matter more

Despite renewed global calls for stronger climate action, the 30th United Nations Climate Conference (COP30) ended without an explicit commitment to phase out fossil fuels.

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Climate Reality Philippines' Climate Diplomacy Lead Mitzi G. Salcedo discusses the key results of the organization's study, Carbon for Sale

As international climate negotiations continue to move at a cautious pace, the impacts of climate change are expected to intensify - with countries like the Philippines bearing a disproportionate share of the damage.

Against this backdrop, local mechanisms are becoming increasingly critical, both to curb emissions and to secure financing to help communities adapt and remain resilient amid a worsening climate crisis.

In line with these efforts, The Climate Reality Project Philippines recently launched a report on the feasibility of establishing an emissions trading system (ETS), in the country. The study positions an ETS as a potential tool to reduce emissions while mobilizing funds for local climate programs.

"The findings and recommendations presented in this report are intended to contribute to the ongoing discussions on carbon markets and carbon credits in the Philippines—with our sincere hope that this would advance science-based, on-ground perspectives to inform our legal frameworks promoting environmental integrity and equitable benefits for our communities," said Aimee Oliveros, interim branch manager of Climate Reality Philippines.

The fossil fuel question

After two weeks of intense negotiations among world leaders alongside protests by civil society organizations and Indigenous peoples’ groups, the COP30 agreement was finally gavelled down on Nov. 22.