27 April 2026
Coal is Coal is Coal – Governments must phase out all coal, both thermal and metallurgical
While governments are meeting in Santa Marta, Colombia, for the First Conference on Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels, ahead of COP31, many continue to overlook the fact that metallurgical coal (met coal) is a fossil fuel that requires urgent transition and phase-out.
Despite being widely considered essential for iron and steel production, met coal poses the same climate, environmental and social risks as thermal coal. Its continued expansion is incompatible with global climate goals and risks locking in high-emissions infrastructure at a time when cleaner alternatives are advancing.
Ahead of COP31, Australia has positioned itself as a climate leader. However, as the world’s largest exporter of metallurgical coal, it continues to support expansion projects.
The momentum created by the Santa Marta Initiative presents a critical opportunity for Australia to demonstrate true leadership. Beyond Fossil Fuels, together with Urgewald and other partners, has signed a joint letter calling on Australia to commit to phasing out all coal, both thermal and metallurgical.