The Guardian20 Jun 2026Macro
Automatically composed with AI from the cited sources
Turkey, with Australia’s support, proposed a global target of 35% of final energy to come from electricity by 2035, announced by environment minister Murat Kurum during the Bonn preparatory talks for COP31. He called electrification “the most important pillar in reducing emissions” and a tool to reach Paris agreement targets. The push moved electrification from a niche topic to centre stage, but the same two-week talks descended into disputes over reaffirming climate science and the 1.5°C goal, with Saudi Arabia and others objecting to established wording, while discussions on a just transition proved constructive and climate finance remained a stumbling block as developed countries cut overseas aid.