Santa Marta Conference Calls for Fossil Fuel Exclusion in Policy

Colombia hosts first global conference on fossil fuel phase-out

Santa Marta in Colombia became the location for the First International Conference on the Just Transition Away from Fossil Fuels between April 24 and 29, 2026. This multinational summit represents the first dedicated global effort to develop concrete plans for phasing out fossil fuels. Colombia and the Netherlands co-hosted the event, which brought together representatives from over 50 nations.

The conference builds on commitments made at COP28 in Dubai, where participating countries agreed to transition away from fossil fuels in energy systems. However, this gathering differs from previous climate forums in one significant way. Organisers have introduced screening procedures to identify and manage conflicts of interest among participants with ties to the fossil fuel industry.

Laura Ranzato, executive director of Clean Creatives, has drawn attention to this screening process. She argues the advertising industry should adopt similar standards. Her comments raise questions about why communications firms continue working with oil and gas clients while other sectors move away from fossil fuel interests.

For UK businesses, the conference signals a shift in how governments and international bodies approach fossil fuel dependencies. The screening process introduces a framework that could eventually extend beyond diplomatic gatherings. Companies involved in communications, marketing, or advisory work may face similar scrutiny in future.

Why 50 nations convened outside the UN framework

Frustration with the pace of UN climate negotiations prompted participating countries to establish this independent forum. The COP process has faced criticism for allowing fossil fuel representatives significant access to proceedings. Previous climate summits included hundreds of attendees with direct links to oil and gas companies, leading to concerns about undue industry influence on policy outcomes.

The Santa Marta conference attempts to address this problem directly. Organisers implemented mandatory screening for fossil fuel connections among attendees. This approach marks a departure from standard practice at international climate events. Consequently, discussions can proceed without participants who hold financial stakes in maintaining fossil fuel production.

Geopolitical factors also influenced the timing. Ongoing tensions involving Iran have disrupted global oil, gas, and fertiliser supplies throughout early 2026. These disruptions caused price spikes across energy markets. Several participating nations view fossil fuel dependency as both an environmental and economic vulnerability. The conference therefore emphasizes planning for energy transitions that reduce exposure to supply shocks.

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