Fossil Fuels and Biodiversity: The Path Towards a Just and Equitable Fossil Fuel Phase-Out in Colombia and Peru

One of the main goals of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework is to safeguard the health of ecosystems and species. However, a key threat to achieving this goal is the fossil fuel industry, which, while being the main contributor to the climate crisis, has also long impacted ecosystems such as the Amazon and marine ecosystems in Peru and Colombia—areas with high concentrations of significant biodiversity reserves. 

COP28 of the UNFCCC marks a significant milestone in recognizing the urgent need to phase-out fossil fuels. Similarly, target 14 of the Global Biodiversity Framework highlights the importance of ensuring that biodiversity and its multiple values are fully integrated into multisectoral policies. 

In this context, the event aims to provide a platform for dialogue and experience sharing on the principles for a just energy transition that addresses both the environmental and social aspects in fossil fuel phase-out plans in Colombia and Peru, with particular emphasis on ecosystem restoration and reparations for the environmental and community impacts of these industries. To this end, a multi-stakeholder panel will feature representatives from academia, affected organizations and civil society.

Objective 

Facilitate dialogue on the urgent need to promote the phase-out of fossil fuels with environmental, social and equity-based criteria that address the 30x30 targets, ecosystem health and reparation for local communities affected by the fossil fuel industries in Colombia and Peru.

Participants

• Sofía Vargas, NRGI
• Paul Maquet, CooperAcción
• Luis Díaz, Association of Fishermen of Aucallama, Peru
• Dulcy Cotes, Fuerza de Mujeres Wayuu