Europe calls for accelerated end to fossil fuel dependence

The European Union Parliament has passed a resolution advocating for the rapid phase-out of fossil fuels.

Bob Berwyn reports forInside Climate News.

In short:

• The resolution bolsters the long-standing efforts of small island nations and developing countries, who have been vocal about the immediate need to address fossil fuel reliance in climate negotiations.
• The resolution sets a precedent for other nations and international bodies to accelerate their transition to sustainable energy sources.

Key quote:

“There can be no doubt that the parties coming to COP28 need to do everything possible to limit the global warming increase and keep the 1.5 target alive.”

— Fatumanava-o-Upolu III Dr Pa’olelei Luteru, chair of the Alliance of Small Island States

Why this matters:

The EU resolution presses climate negotiators to remain focused on a fossil fuel phaseout during the COP28 summit in Dubai, which starts Thursday. The US has not joined the resolution, and has faced criticism recently for expanding fossil fuel production and natural gas exports, notes Berwyn. Should the US commit to a rapid phaseout of fossil fuels?

For a different perspective on international climate talks, read Ruth Greenspan Bell's op-ed for EHN: It’s time to re-think the United Nations’ COP climate negotiations.

AI-based tools helped produce this text, with human oversight and editing.