Symposium: The Coal Challenge

Coal accounts for 28% of the global primary energy supply, and coal-fired power generation is the single largest source of CO2 emissions. To meet the Paris climate goals, a large part of the world’s coal reserves must remain unused. This is why many countries are considering policies to discontinue the mining and/or use of coal. However, while some countries have already adopted concrete strategies to phase out coal, others have not even brought the issue on to the political agenda. Where do these differences come from?

The focus of the debate will include the constellations under which the relevant stakeholders (energy companies, trade associations, local governments, NGOs, etc.) can or cannot agree on pathways to phase out coal. We will especially focus on the role of local coal industries, their positioning in global resource trade, and the perspectives for employees in times of structural change. Ultimately, sustainable and politically feasible coal policies are not possible without addressing these challenges.

This public event will include a keynote presentation followed by a panel discussion. The event concludes with a reception (apéro).

In case of any question about the event, please contact: energiepolitik-wwz@unibas.ch