Q&A: What is in the global ‘roadmap’ for transitioning away from fossil fuels?

by | Nov 8, 2026 | Climate Change

Q&A: What is in the global ‘roadmap’ for transitioning away from fossil fuels?

Brazil has unveiled a first-of-its-kind global roadmap for transitioning away from fossil fuels, marking a significant development in international climate efforts. The roadmap emerged from Brazil’s presidency following last year’s climate summit, COP30, and represents a voluntary framework for countries seeking to phase out coal, oil, and gas. The initiative emphasizes that the transition is “urgent, inevitable and, yet, possible,” while acknowledging that different nations face distinct circumstances and constraints.

The roadmap rejects the idea of uniform approaches to decarbonization, instead proposing what it calls the “Belém readiness index,” a self-assessment tool allowing countries to evaluate their dependency on fossil fuels and capacity for transition. Countries that complete this diagnostic phase will be categorized into four distinct archetypes, each receiving tailored policy recommendations suited to their national contexts. According to the framework, this approach prioritizes practical, implementable solutions that countries can readily adapt to their specific situations.

The proposed transition is structured across three phases extending through 2033, a target year aligned with a call made at the COP28 climate summit for global action on fossil fuels. The initial phase, running through 2028, focuses on institutional development and establishing long-term policy signals. The second phase, from 2028 to 2030, concentrates on the physical transformation of energy infrastructure, coinciding with the due date for countries’ renewed climate pledges. The final phase, spanning 2031 to 2033, emphasizes scaling up transition efforts across all sectors.

The roadmap has garnered support from climate policy experts and civil society organizations. Observers have praised the framework for providing practical guidance while respecting national circumstances, strengthening energy security considerations, and protecting livelihoods during the transition. The approach has been characterized as a consultative form of multilateralism originating from a developing country and incorporating input from diverse stakeholders. The roadmap is expected to influence discussions at the upcoming COP31 climate summit beginning next week in Turkey.

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