Fossil fuel exit coalition presses on at COP31 despite Colombia exit

A coalition of countries working to move away from fossil fuels is preparing to share new national plans at the COP31 climate talks in Antalya, Turkey, even though Colombia, a founding member, has dropped out.

Progress Report

The group started in the Colombian coastal city of Santa Marta in April. It plans to release a progress report this week. The report details steps taken by member countries, including national plans to cut their reliance on coal, oil and gas. Ireland and Tuvalu are getting ready to take over leadership of the initiative from Colombia and the Netherlands. A second international conference is planned for July 2027.

Leadership Change

Ireland's Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment confirmed Colombia's exit and said event plans for next year are well advanced. A formal handover will happen during COP31. The Santa Marta group brought together 57 countries to turn climate promises into national policies. The gathering relies on open talks without pressure for binding rules.

Colombian Policy Shift

Colombia's exit follows the election of President Abelardo de la Espriella. He took office in August and promised to boost the oil and gas industry and restart exploration. He followed former President Gustavo Petro, who had stopped new oil and gas contracts. Colombia's current Environment Minister Fabio Arjona said past gas limits caused domestic shortages and forced some industries to use dirtier fuels.

Wider Momentum

Former Colombian Environment Minister Irene Velez said the coalition has grown beyond just one government. Experts note that 23 countries have announced road maps or plans to build them. Still, researchers point out that voluntary steps have limits and need clear timelines to succeed.

Context

COP31 brings nations together to debate climate action and global road maps. Voluntary coalitions often form outside formal UN talks to push faster progress when official negotiations move slowly. Countries face ongoing challenges in balancing energy security with the need to cut greenhouse gas emissions.