U.S. Said to Help Dilute Language in UN Environment Report, Delegates Claim

Coalition of Nations Challenges Key Sections

During the final negotiations of a three‑year‑long United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) draft, officials from the United States joined forces with representatives from Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Iran to push back against proposed wording on three critical issues: fossil‑fuel dependence, biodiversity loss, and plastic pollution.

Key Points Targeted for Revision

The original draft called for:

• Immediate phasing out of unabated fossil‑fuel projects to meet climate goals.
• Strong, enforceable commitments to halt the decline of biodiversity and protect endangered ecosystems.
• A global framework to dramatically cut the production and disposal of single‑use plastics.

According to several participants, the U.S. delegation, alongside its allies, argued that the language was “too prescriptive” and could jeopardize national sovereignty and economic interests. The coalition advocated for softer phrasing, emphasizing “voluntary measures” and “national‑level flexibility.”

Negotiators’ Reactions

“We respect the scientific consensus, but the report must reflect realistic pathways for all countries,” said a senior U.S. envoy, speaking on condition of anonymity. A Russian delegate echoed the sentiment, noting that “the document should not impose binding targets that could destabilize energy markets.”

Environmental NGOs, however, expressed disappointment. Friends of the Earth released a statement calling the amendments “a setback for global climate ambition” and urged the UN to retain the original, science‑based language.

What This Means for the Final Report

If the revised wording is adopted, the final UNEP report is expected to present a more generalized call for “enhanced cooperation” rather than explicit calls for policy shifts. Critics argue that such dilution may weaken the report’s ability to drive concrete action at the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference (COP 30).

Despite the controversy, the draft is slated for approval at the closing session of the UNEP meeting next week, after which it will be circulated to member states for formal endorsement.