Christian climate activists have been left disappointed with the progress made during the COP27 summit, as countries scramble to negotiate a deal beyond the end of the conference.
The summit was supposed to end yesterday, but a number of wealthy nations are still deliberating over a deal that would see poorer countries experiencing the most dramatic effects of climate change compensated.
The Egyptian COP presidency has come under fire for leaving it to the final day of the two weeks of negotiations to draft a pact, leaving little time for countries to sign it off.
Many of the contributing nations feel uncomfortable “signing a blank cheque,” slowing down the agreement process.
The Sharm El-Sheikh conference has been punctuated with protests in the UK, including days of disruptions on the M25 at the hands of Just Stop Oil protestors.
Many activists remain frustrated with the “inaction” of leading nations at COP27.
When asked whether she was pleased with progress made, Melanie Nazareth, from Christian Climate Action, said: “I think the obvious answer is no. By a long way. I think probably the best you can say about it is it doesn't seem to have been worse than COP26.”
She continued: “I think as Christians, we need to both pray and take action, to highlight the need to be working together as a global family, as all God's people.
“That connects really strongly with the part about climate justice, and about providing funds and technology to help the poorest and most vulnerable countries to deal with the climate crisis.
“They didn't cause it. They are the least responsible, and they're already on the front lines.
“We only have to look at what's been happening in in the last few months to know how urgent it is that we step in and assist them.”