G-7 sets distant goal to stop world’s use of fossil fuels

Associated Press

ELMAU, Germany

The world should move away from using fossil fuels by the end of this century, G-7 leaders said Monday, setting an ambitious but distant goal ahead of a global conference on climate change this year.

The leaders of seven wealthy democracies also warned Russia that sanctions imposed for its actions against Ukraine would remain until a cease-fire is fully observed in eastern Ukraine – and those sanctions could be made tougher if the situation requires.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel, whose turn it was to host the annual gathering, pressed for a commitment to “decarbonize” the global economy – that is, to eliminate most carbon-dioxide emissions from burning oil, gas and coal. While the goal was set for the end of the century, the seven leaders also asserted that “urgent and concrete action is needed to address climate change.”

Burning fossil fuels produces carbon dioxide, which traps the sun’s heat and warms the atmosphere.