Chicago, Illinois, October 1 2025 - Chicago City Council unanimously approved a resolution calling for the federal government to support negotiation of a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty. In the same resolution, the council also reaffirmed its commitment to the goals of the Paris Agreement, underlining how a new international framework on phasing out coal, oil and gas production can function as a crucial step towards addressing the climate crisis.

Local high schooler Gabi Jamieson was the architect of the resolution in her capacity as an intern for the Committee on Environmental Protection and Energy. She authored the resolution, secured support from other environmental groups and the Illinois Environmental Council, and testified in front of the Chicago Committee on Environmental Protection and Energy. That committee then sent the resolution to the full City Council for a final vote.

Jamieson is also the leader of the Chicago chapter of Fridays for Future, whose members successfully campaigned for an endorsement of a Fossil Fuel Treaty from Philadelphia, with active campaigns in other cities. Across the US and beyond, young people are demonstrating amazing leadership, energy, and excitement for a Fossil Fuel Treaty.

Gabi Jamieson said:

“As a young organizer, I am very proud to see Chicago endorse the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty. I first learned about the resolution shortly after Philadelphia endorsed it, and realized that Chicago hadn't endorsed the resolution. Being a Chicagoan for over 10 years, I knew that it would be really important for such a big city like us to lead the way for other US cities to do the same, since we are at a moment in time where fighting for the environment and proliferation of fossil fuels has never been more important. I've always wanted to fight for my planet, but wasn't really sure how I could, so it was really cool to write a resolution for my city and build a campaign in support of it, and know that individuals like me can do something about the natural order of climate neglect.” 

This resolution is also significant because of Chicago’s history as a coal city. Like many cities in midwestern America, the coal trade was important to the economic growth of Chicago even as it undermined local public health through pollution. The resolution is a powerful signpost towards Chicago’s energy future, one also characterized by economic growth while also supporting clean air and water, and equity for all of Chicago’s residents. 

Chicago Alderwoman Maria Hadden said:

“As the Chairperson of the Committee on Environmental Protection and Energy, it was my pleasure to work with Gabi on the resolution in support of a Fossil Fuel Treaty. This is an important step in Chicago’s efforts to help lead the country and the world into an equitable energy future, building on our past divestment from fossil fuels, efforts to reduce emissions, and commitment to making sure all Chicagoans have access to clean air and water.”

The Fossil Fuel Treaty initiative is gaining rapid momentum globally. Chicago joins other major American hubs including Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and most recently Pittsburgh in calling for a Fossil Fuel Treaty. 17 nation-states globally are participating in discussions on negotiating a Fossil Fuel Treaty, a proposal that has now been endorsed by 135+ cities and subnational governments around the world, who agree a binding agreement is necessary to stop the expansion of oil, gas, and coal in order to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreeme”