UN Pact for the Future Targets Fossil Fuel Phaseout

On 22nd September, 2024, the United Nations' newly adopted Pact for the Future reaffirmed the global commitment to combat fossil fuels as a critical component of addressing the climate crisis.

Key Points

143 Nations Committed: At the Summit of the Future in New York, 143 countries voted to transition away from fossil fuels in their energy systems, emphasizing a just and equitable approach.
Opposition and Abstentions: Seven countries, including Russia, Belarus, and Iran, opposed the pact, while 15 nations chose to abstain from the vote.
Renewable Energy Goals: The agreement reaffirms commitments made during COP28 to triple global renewable energy capacity and double the rate of energy efficiency improvements by 2030.
Coal Phase-down Pledge: Leaders pledged to accelerate efforts to phase down unabated coal power, marking a significant step in global energy reform.
Contentious Negotiations: The phrase "transition away from fossil fuels" sparked debate during negotiations, having been omitted from earlier drafts before being reinstated.