Response to UN Secretary-General’s Call for Fossil Fuel Phaseout: ‘The Time for Action Is Now’
Today, UN Secretary General António Guterres acknowledged one simple truth: The fossil fuel industry is the prime culprit behind the escalating climate crisis. Despite the urgent need to cut emissions, the industry continues to rake in huge profits while our planet burns.
In response to UN Secretary General António Guterres speech calling for a fossil fuel phaseout, David Tong, Oil Change International Global Industry Campaign Manager, said:
“Today, UN Secretary General António Guterres acknowledged one simple truth: The fossil fuel industry is the prime culprit behind the escalating climate crisis. Despite the urgent need to cut emissions, the industry continues to rake in huge profits while our planet burns.
“We must urgently phase out fossil fuels to avoid catastrophic climate impacts and the next 18 months are critical. Our recent report, Big Oil Reality Check, showed oil and gas companies – the climate arsonists fueling climate chaos – cannot be trusted to put out the fire.
“It’s time to hold the fossil fuel industry accountable for its role in driving climate chaos. Billions have been spent to distort the truth and delay action. Banning fossil fuel advertising as Guterres suggests is an obvious immediate step to take.
“Leaders must act with maximum ambition, cooperation, and urgency. They must act to slash emissions, boost climate finance, and clamp down on the fossil fuel industry. This means G20 countries must lead the way, as they have the responsibility and capacity to make the most significant impact. For us to have a future, the oil and gas industry must have no future.”