The Debate Over “Unabated” Fossil Fuels

November 9, 2023

“Unabated” emissions refer to the release of greenhouse gases from burning fossil fuels without any reduction measures. COP27 established intentions to phase down “unabated coal power,” the most polluting fossil fuel.

What Does “Abated” Mean?

There’s no clear definition of “abated” fossil fuels, leading to political advantages and compromises.
Ambiguity allows for varied interpretations, which could undermine climate change mitigation efforts.

Implications of Definitions

A broad definition could lead to insignificant emission reductions, risking surpassing the critical 1.5C warming limit.
A stricter definition could contribute to maintaining the possibility of the 1.5C target by imposing strict emission limits.

Diverse Positions of Nations

Nations are divided on the issue, with some calling for the complete phase-out of fossil fuel production and use.
Fossil fuel-producing countries and those reliant on coal, like Saudi Arabia, Russia, the UAE, India, and China, prefer less specific language.
The G7 and the U.S. advocate for phasing out unabated fossil fuels with support for carbon capture and storage (CCS).
The EU aims for an energy sector predominantly free from fossil fuels by 2050, though “predominantly” lacks precision.

Seeking a Clear Definition

A footnote in a 2023 IPCC report suggests that “abated” should mean a substantial reduction in emissions, like capturing 90% or more CO2 from power plants.
Researchers propose that “abated” should be used only when emissions reductions are between 90-95%, and methane leaks are near zero.

The Urgency for Standards

Scientists stress the need for clear standards, especially for new coal plants and industrial facilities, as they will likely operate beyond 2050.
There’s a pressing need for these facilities to adopt the latest technologies to ensure they meet future emission standards.

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