Fossilfree

Fossilfree is a term describing efforts to reduce or end the use and investment in fossil fuels—coal, oil, and natural gas—and to shift toward low- or zero-carbon energy systems. It is used across individuals, organizations, and governments to describe both procurement choices and investment strategies that aim to minimize fossil-fuel exposure and emissions.

Core elements include fossil fuel divestment, which entails selling or avoiding investments in fossil companies; fossil-free procurement, which uses electricity and fuels from renewable or carbon-free sources; and broader decarbonization measures such as electrifying transport and industry, improving energy efficiency, and funding clean technologies and research. Some programs set explicit targets or align strategies with climate frameworks like the Paris Agreement.

In practice, fossilfree efforts are pursued by universities, pension funds, cities, and corporations through policy statements, portfolio guidelines, and procurement rules. Campaigns and coalitions often accompany these efforts with public education and stakeholder engagement to manage transition impacts.

Critics note that simply labeling investments as fossilfree does not guarantee lower emissions unless the overall energy mix and end-use systems are decarbonized. Practical challenges include ensuring reliable energy supply, maintaining affordability, and addressing economic disruption for workers and communities tied to fossil fuels.

Despite these challenges, fossilfree remains a prominent concept in climate policy, sustainable finance, and corporate governance as part of broader efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and accelerate the transition to clean energy.