Source link : https://las-vegas-news.com/santa-marta-summit-57-nations-confront-fossil-fuels-ties-to-war-and-climate-in-landmark-gathering/
As Energy, War and Climate Collide, a Conference in Colombia Charts a Path Beyond Fossil Fuels – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
Santa Marta, Colombia – Representatives from 57 countries convened last week in this Caribbean port city for the world’s first Conference on Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels. Co-hosted by Colombia and the Netherlands, the event drew ministers, experts, and activists who openly linked oil, gas, and coal dependence to armed conflicts, economic shocks, and accelerating climate impacts.[1][2] Participants represented roughly one-third of global economic activity and sought practical pathways to renewable energy systems built for resilience rather than scarcity.
Shattering Long-Held Silences
The gathering marked a departure from traditional climate forums, where fossil fuel producers had blocked direct discussions on phase-outs. Delegates broke a persistent taboo by addressing how fossil fuels drive not only emissions but also geopolitical tensions and human displacement. This shift came amid recent energy disruptions from conflicts, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, fighting in Gaza, and a U.S.-Israeli military action in Iran.[1]
Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu’s minister for climate change adaptation, highlighted the rare alignment. “It’s very heartening to have the Global North and the Global South in the same room, countries willing to talk about transitioning away from fossil fuels,” he said.[1]…
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Author : Matthias Binder
Publish date : 2026-05-01 17:01:00
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