Fossil fuel breakthrough is welcome news
Santa Marta meeting marks a step toward transitioning away from fossil fuels and reducing human-induced climate change
6 May 2026 - WELLINGTON - A recent international conference on fossil fuels has resulted in new momentum to phase them out, with agreement to advance discussions on a proposed Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty.
The Santa Marta Conference on Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels, hosted last week by Colombia and the Netherlands brought together government representatives from 53 countries, along with other parties, to tackle head-on the root cause of human-induced climate change. The meeting focused on pathways to reduce reliance on coal, oil and gas, and on the need for coordinated international action.
Once agreed, the proposed treaty would include a managed and time-bound phase-out of fossil fuels. The process of developing the treaty is intended to be both rapid and equitable, with consideration for differing national circumstances.
Next conference will take place in the Pacific
A key outcome of the conference was confirmation that the next set of discussions will be supported by Ireland and co-hosted in Tuvalu in 2027 - an excellent opportunity for a Pacific nation to demonstrate first-hand the day-to-day impact of climate change in the region.
“We are delighted that the second conference will be co-hosted by Tuvalu, alongside Ireland,” said Mena Antonio, Chief Executive of Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand and Vice President of Caritas Internationalis. “Pacific states are at the coal face of climate change, and we welcome news that the world’s attention will be on this region. The world must act together to ensure a habitable home for all people and future generations.”
Tuvalu's Minister for Climate Change and Environment Maina Talia said preparations for the 2027 meeting will prioritise inclusive participation as negotiations continue.
An existential threat to cultures
For Pacific nations, the issue remains urgent. Rising sea levels, coastal erosion and extreme weather are already affecting communities, food security, infrastructure and freshwater supplies. Multiple Pacific countries face climate induced debt – the servicing of which drains money away from vital services, such as education or health.
Eliala Fihaki, a Tuvaluan working with Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand, has spoken about the possible loss of her homeland, culture and identity if climate impacts continue to intensify (see video below). She has called for stronger global action and greater support for affected communities.
“For generations, we’ve journeyed across Oceania with purpose and hope,” she said. “But today, our journey is uncertain - like a log adrift, carried by forces beyond our control. We are not choosing to leave; we are being pushed.”
Tuvaluan Eliala Fihaki discusses the possible loss of her homeland, culture and identity if climate impacts continue to intensify.
For three decades, Caritas members and partners in Oceania have been reporting on climate impacts for the communities they serve. Since 2014, Caritas in Oceania has documented these impacts, and called for climate action, and fair finance to address loss and damage - through a series of reports. https://www.caritas.org.nz/state-environment