What is COP26 and why does it matter? A guide to Glasgow climate talks 2021

COP26's aim is to curb emissions, keep the goal of 1.5 degrees of global warming within reach, sort out rules for a carbon market and raise billions in climate finance. Here's your roadmap to COP26

COP climate talks were always going to be difficult: 200 countries in search of a plan to prevent catastrophic warming of the planet with time running out fast.The backdrop of terrifying weather events had brought a renewed sense of urgency to the matter. Then, the energy crisis struck, leaving Asia and Europe scrambling for fossil fuels, forcing China to double down on coal, and giving climate laggards another excuse not to engage. In the US, President Joe Biden’s green ambitions have gotten bogged down in domestic politics, undermining his credibility as he tries to push others to curb their emissions.