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Fossil Fuel Exit: Colombia Hosts Global Shift
15 Apr
Summary
- Colombia and Netherlands co-host global fossil fuel transition conference.
- Conference adopts majority rule, avoiding past UN consensus deadlock.
- Major economies aim to shift $7tn in fossil fuel subsidies.
A significant international conference on transitioning away from fossil fuels is taking place in Santa Marta, Colombia, from April 24-29. Co-sponsored by Colombia and the Netherlands, the event aims to develop actionable solutions for a global fossil fuel phase-out. This initiative follows the 2025 COP30 summit, where a lack of consensus prevented a roadmap for fossil fuel abandonment.
The conference is designed to operate on a majority-rule system, a departure from the UN's consensus model that has previously stalled progress. Organizers emphasize that it is not a formal negotiating body but a platform for sharing ideas and experiences. Governments, academics, activists, and civil society representatives are attending to outline practical steps.
A critical objective is the just transition, ensuring that phasing out fossil fuels does not negatively impact employment or economic stability. Discussions will also address redirecting the $7tn in annual global fossil fuel subsidies. The combined economic power of the 85 nations that previously backed a fossil fuel roadmap is substantial, offering significant leverage for change.
