environment
‘Historic breakthrough’: Colombia climate talks end with hopes raised for fossil fuel phaseout
Nearly 60 countries back voluntary roadmaps to wean world off coal, oil and gas, at conference prompted by frustration with UN climate summits
TL;DR
- Nearly 60 countries agreed to develop voluntary national 'roadmaps' for ending fossil fuel production and use.
- The initiative aims to create a concrete, collective effort to transition away from coal, oil, and gas.
- The approach deviates from annual UN climate negotiations, which have seen limited success in reducing emissions.
- The 'coalition of the willing' represents over half of global GDP and a significant portion of energy demand and fossil fuel supply.
- Countries will set out their own plans for winding down fossil fuel output, with no strict deadlines or required structures.
- Colombia and France have already published draft or completed roadmaps.
- The initiative also includes plans to support poorer countries with expertise, scrutinize fossil fuel subsidies, and collaborate on trade and financial reforms.
- A second conference is scheduled for early next year in Tuvalu.
- The meeting was prompted by frustration with UN climate summits where consensus rules have hindered progress on fossil fuel phaseout.