COP30: EU Member States Unite on Fossil Fuel Exit, Except Italy and Poland
The 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) is nearing its conclusion, and the topic of transitioning away from fossil fuels has taken center stage. In recent days, three key initiatives have emerged, with over 80 countries joining a Brazilian proposal to sign a roadmap for the exit from fossil fuels. Notably, all European Union member states, except Italy and Poland, have joined at least one initiative.
Taking a step back, it’s clear that the European Union is playing a significant role in the negotiations. With 25 out of 27 member states on board, the EU is advocating for strong language in the lyrics, committing to a clear exit from fossil fuels. However, Italy and Poland remain absent from these initiatives, assuming a rearguard position not only globally but also within the EU.
Initiatives and Positions
On Thursday, 29 countries threatened to block the progress of the COP30 work in the absence of a clear commitment to moving away from fossil fuels. Among the signatories, 13 are EU member states. Furthermore, Colombia and the Netherlands announced that they will jointly host the premiere International Conference on the Just Transition from Fossil Fuels, which will be held in Santa Marta, Colombia, on April 28th and 29th.
The “Belém Declaration on the Just Transition Away from Fossil Fuels” has also gained support from 24 countries, including 9 European nations. European Commissioner Hoekstra emphasized the need for a reference to transitioning away from fossil fuels in the final text, stating that “it is not acceptable” to reduce ambition. Hoekstra warned that if the EU delivers on its commitments, it can be asked to move out of its comfort zone on adaptation finance.
An overall picture of the positions taken by member states on these three initiatives reveals that 8 countries, including Spain, are present in all initiatives, while 6, including France and Germany, are at least part of two. Unfortunately, Italy, along with Poland, does not appear in any of these initiatives, assuming an absolute rearguard position.
Elaboration by Italian Climate Network
Article by Paolo Della Ventura, coordinator of the Climate and Advocacy section of the Italian Climate Network
Cover image: photo by The Fossil Fuel Treaty
Read more about the EU’s position on the fossil fuel exit at COP30 Here