New Delhi – In a landmark commitment, the G20 countries convened at the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration, vowing to accelerate efforts to phase down unabated coal power in alignment with individual national circumstances. This bold move reaffirms their 2009 pledge made in Pittsburgh to eliminate and rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies.
The declaration underscored the critical significance of expediting the development, deployment, and proliferation of cutting-edge technologies to facilitate the transition toward low-emission energy systems. Of particular note was the resolve to rapidly expand the deployment of clean power generation.
“We are steadfast in our determination to execute the commitment set forth in Pittsburgh in 2009, which calls for the gradual phase-out and rationalization of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies that promote wasteful consumption. This objective will be pursued alongside targeted assistance to uplift the poorest and most vulnerable segments of society,” as articulated in the G20 Declaration.
Furthermore, the declaration highlighted the urgent need to accelerate the development, deployment, and diffusion of transformative technologies and the adoption of progressive policies to facilitate the shift towards low-emission energy systems. This includes a firm commitment to escalate efforts aimed at the phase-down of unabated coal power, in accordance with national contexts, while recognizing the imperative for support to ensure equitable transitions.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a momentous announcement during the G20 leaders’ meeting, heralded the formal adoption of this Declaration.
This resolute commitment by the G20 nations represents a pivotal step towards a greener and more sustainable future, setting the stage for decisive action in the global fight against climate change.