Countries Meet in Colombia for First Global Talks on Phasing Out Fossil Fuels

1-Minute Brief

This summit reflects growing international frustration with stalled UN climate negotiations and seeks alternative pathways to reduce fossil fuel de...

Key Facts

• Delegates from between 50 and 60 countries are gathering in Santa Marta, Colombia.
• The event is called the Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels conference and is co-hosted by Colombia and the Netherlands.
• The conference runs from 24 to 29 April and includes subnational governments, civil society groups, and academics.
• Participants aim to discuss strategies for moving beyond oil, gas, and coal production.
• The meeting was prompted by dissatisfaction with the lack of progress at recent UN climate talks.

What Happened

A coalition of countries, subnational governments, and civil society groups convened in Santa Marta, Colombia, for the first global conference focused on transitioning away from fossil fuels.

Why It Matters

The summit represents a significant effort to address fossil fuel reliance outside the traditional UN climate framework, potentially influencing future international climate policy discussions. Reports vary on the exact number of participating countries, with sources citing between 50 and 60.

What's Next

Outcomes from the conference may inform future negotiations and initiatives aimed at reducing fossil fuel use, with participants expected to propose new approaches for global energy transition.