Top Climate Scientists Call for Legally Binding Fossil Fuel Phase-Out Roadmaps

Scientists convened at the Santa Marta fossil fuel conference published new findings on April 25, calling on all governments to develop legally binding, country-specific roadmaps for the phase-out of coal, oil, and gas production aligned with 1.5°C warming limits. The Santa Marta Synthesis report identified 12 actionable insights, including the immediate halt of new fossil fuel expansion, setting sector-level phase-out timelines, and linking transition finance to worker and community protection programs. The panel found that current NDC pledges — even if fully implemented — put the world on track for continued emissions growth of 0.4% per year through 2035. Scientists noted that the Santa Marta coalition represents a 'new power' in global climate diplomacy, with momentum building to codify fossil fuel phase-out in international law through a Fossil Fuel Treaty, complementing rather than replacing the Paris Agreement.