The G7 energy and environment ministers have made a historic commitment to phase out coal power by 2035, marking the first time the group has explicitly referenced a phase-out. The final communique from the meeting in Turin included language that could extend the deadline to a timeframe consistent with limiting the rise in global temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Italy’s minister emphasized the importance of targeting coal, which is a major source of emissions. This commitment builds on countries’ pledges made at the COP 28 conference last year in Dubai, which called for accelerating the phase-down of unabated coal power.
Environmental campaigners have criticized the commitment, stating that it falls short of the goal of decarbonizing power sectors in G7 nations by 2035, as recommended by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the International Energy Agency. They argue that phasing out coal by 2030 and gas power by 2035 would be more in line with the urgency of the climate crisis. The Beyond Fossil Fuels campaign called the coal phase-out commitment vague, suggesting it may be an attempt to coax Japan into making a commitment to exit coal, as Japan is the only G7 country without a coal phase-out date.
Despite some countries committing to phasing out coal by 2030, including Britain, France, Italy, and Canada, there is still work to be done. The United States and Germany are also taking major steps towards this date, but there is a need for all G7 nations to align with the reality and urgency of the climate crisis. The Beyond Fossil Fuels organization emphasized the importance of G7 ministers leading by example and committing to ambitious targets that reflect the severity of the situation. It is clear that more ambitious goals are needed in order to effectively address climate change and reduce emissions from the power sector.
The move to phase out coal power is significant, as coal is a major source of emissions and a key contributor to climate change. By setting a deadline to end coal power by 2035, the G7 nations are taking a step in the right direction towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to cleaner forms of energy. This commitment not only aligns with international recommendations but also demonstrates a collective effort to address the urgent need to address the climate crisis. It is crucial for all countries, especially those heavily reliant on coal, to work towards phasing out this source of energy and transitioning to more sustainable alternatives.
The G7’s commitment to phasing out coal power by 2035 is a positive step towards addressing the climate crisis, but more ambitious targets are needed to meet the goals set out by experts and scientists. By aligning their commitments with the urgency of the situation and taking concrete actions to reduce emissions, the G7 nations can lead by example and inspire other countries to follow suit. It is important for all countries to work together towards a cleaner, more sustainable future that prioritizes the health of the planet and future generations. The phase-out of coal power by 2035 is a significant milestone, but there is still much work to be done to achieve a truly sustainable energy system.
