Publication date: Press release published on November 23, 2025
Author: admin.ch
Source: Press release on news.admin.ch
Publication date: November 23, 2025
Summary reading time: 3 minutes
Executive Summary
The 30th UN Climate Conference in Belém (Brazil) ended without agreement on a concrete roadmap for a global phase-out of fossil fuels, despite intensive negotiations among the 194 contracting states. While the international community discussed existing national climate targets and evaluated measures to accelerate climate protection implementation, progress was only achieved in the area of climate finance. Switzerland officially expressed regret over the failure to establish a binding phase-out plan for oil, coal, and gas.
Critical Guiding Questions
To what extent does the lack of a binding phase-out plan for fossil fuels undermine economic planning security for companies investing in renewable energy?
Which geopolitical power shifts prevent global consensus, and how could transparent, market-oriented solutions overcome the stalemate?
What opportunities arise for pioneering states like Switzerland that maintain ambitious climate goals despite the lack of global agreement?
Scenario Analysis: Future Perspectives
Short-term (1 year):
International climate negotiations will continue under increased pressure, with regional and bilateral agreements gaining importance. Switzerland could strengthen its position in European climate alliances while expanding economic partnerships for cleantech innovations.
Medium-term (5 years):
A two-track global climate regime emerges: Progressive states and economic blocs implement ambitious decarbonization strategies, while other countries continue to rely on fossil fuels. Differentiated border adjustment mechanisms and climate tariffs will be introduced, potentially leading to new trade tensions.
Long-term (10-20 years):
Market forces drive the transition to renewable energy as their economic viability increases compared to fossil fuels. States that invested early in sustainable technologies benefit from competitive advantages, while latecomers face higher transformation costs.
Main Summary
Core Issue & Context
The COP30 in Belém (Brazil) ended on November 22, 2025, without a breakthrough in establishing a global phase-out plan for fossil fuels. This development is particularly critical given the increasing frequency of extreme weather events and scientific evidence indicating that the 1.5-degree target cannot be achieved without radical emission reductions.
Key Facts & Figures
- 194 contracting states participated in the negotiations
- No binding roadmap for phasing out oil, coal, and gas achieved
- Focus on closing the gap to the 1.5-degree target of the Paris Agreement
- Positive developments in the area of climate finance
- Official criticism from Switzerland regarding the negotiation outcome
Stakeholders & Affected Parties
- UN Climate Secretariat and parties to the Paris Agreement
- Fossil fuel industry and its investors
- Cleantech sector and renewable energy industry
- States and regions particularly affected by climate change
- Global financial institutions and development banks
Opportunities & Risks
Opportunities:
- Progress in climate finance could accelerate climate protection projects in developing countries
- Pioneer states can advance climate protection through bilateral agreements
- Economic opportunities for companies in the renewable energy sector
Risks:
- Increasing fragmentation of global climate policy
- Delayed phase-out of fossil fuels increases costs of climate change
- Planning uncertainty for companies and investors
Action Relevance
Decision-makers should maintain ambitious national climate goals despite global stagnation and strengthen regional cooperation. Business leaders should make investment decisions based on long-term decarbonization trends, independent of short-term political setbacks. Communication to stakeholders should emphasize that the transition to a low-carbon economy is irreversible, even if the pace varies.
References
Primary source:
COP30: No Agreement on Roadmap for Oil and Gas Phase-out
Supplementary sources:
[⚠️ To verify: No additional sources were provided]
Verification status: ⚠️ Based exclusively on the press release