The G7 nations have promised to end unabated coal use by 2035, with some flexibility for special circumstances. This solution, unveiled following meetings in Turin, Italy, aims to phase out coal power generation by the early 2030s.
However, governments may continue to use coal if carbon emissions are caught. Countries can set deadlines aimed at limiting global warming to 1.5°C. While some G7 members have reduced their use of coal, others, such as Japan and Germany, continue to rely significantly on it.
The United States recently issued laws requiring coal-fired plants to absorb pollutants or close by 2039. Despite disputes regarding its robustness, the deal represents progress. Climate experts see it as critical leadership in tackling climate change. However, sceptics say that the 2035 deadline is insufficient to keep warming to 1.5°C.
Climate Analytics estimates that coal should be phased out completely by 2030, with natural gas phased out by 2035. The agreement’s lack of a gasoline phase-out is troubling, considering its contribution to emissions. It is proposed to accelerate the shift to renewable energy. While coal’s downfall has been contested, the global agreement at COP28 did not include a precise end date for coal.
