PRESS RELEASE, 6 SEPTEMBER 2022 - Bogotá: A unique and historic breakthrough is happening in Colombia where local and international experts, national government, and civil society are coming to the table to discuss Colombia’s energy transition within 15 years. Given the global energy crises and the climate emergency, Colombia's ambitious plans make it a global leader in energy transition. 

In light of multiple energy related meetings this week, Colombian Non-Government organizations (NGO’s), oil and gas workers union, academic researchers and international institutes are presenting a new report titled: A planned reduction in fossil fuel dependence in Colombia: working toward cultural shift and participatory demand-side management. 

This report presents a collective view of an energy transition within a socio-ecological perspective that includes much more than just the reconversion of technologies.

 “We offer a view focused on climate justice, anti-patriarchalism, the reduction of inequality, and the enhancement of productivity in accordance with the ways of life of regions, territories, and ecosystems for human and non-human life (flora, fauna, biota, cycles),” said Tatiana Roa Avendaño, Colombian organization CENSAT Agua Viva - Friends of the Earth.

The report puts forward a long term vision and a series of proposals on policy, both domestic and internationally. It will be presented to various stakeholders including Congress representatives and government officials. Additionally, it will be discussed at a forum at Universidad de los Andes with international leaders and incumbent Minister Environment Susana Muhamad, and Mining and Energy Minister Irene Vélez.

 "Our interest as environmental organizations is to provide elements to think about an energy transition in terms of socio-ecological transformations, which include technological elements, but above all, contemplate socio-environmental justice, respect for ancestral ways of life and care for life,” said Tatiana Roa Avendaño. 

Colombia is one of the largest global exporters of coal with Turkey, Chile and China being its prominent buyers. It also exports oil and the United States is its key market. Colombia has its first progressive government in history with a strong commitment to phase out fossil fuels production in the next 15 years. The Pacto Histórico government, headed by Gustavo Petro Urrego and Francia Márquez Mina proposes a gradual, fair, and orderly energy transition, making Colombia a world leader on energy transition and respecting the natural environment.