Delivering on Decline: The Comparative Political Economy of Fossil Fuel Production Cuts

Abstract

Presenters: Peter Newell is Professor of International Relations at the University of Sussex, sustainability theme lead at the Sussex School for Progressive Futures and co-founder of the Rapid Transition Alliance. His research focuses on the global political economy of energy transitions, especially with regard to the phase out of fossil fuels which is the focus on an ERC/UKRI grant. His most recent books include Power Shift: The Global Political Economy of the Energy Transition and States of Transition: From Governing the Environment to Transforming Society. In 2025 he was awarded the BISA prize for his distinguished contribution to the discipline of International Relations. Daniela Soto Hernandez Lukas Slothuus Freddie Daley (University of Sussex) Abstract: Global momentum towards restricting the production of climate-heating fossil fuels is increasing, with important implications for pathways to development and prosperity beyond fossil fuels. Yet understandings of the comparative political dynamics driving this process are lacking. Based on original quantitative and qualitative research in eight first-mover countries that have unilaterally adopted supply-side policies to limit fossil fuel production (Chile, Costa Rica, Colombia, Denmark, Ecuador, Greenland, Sweden and the UK), we identify overarching lessons that can be derived from the experience to date of these countries regarding (i) the drivers of these policies, (ii) the specific forms they take, and (iii) how effective are they at leaving fossil fuels in the ground. This enhances our understanding of this critical new frontier in climate governance by embedding analysis in the political economy of development in these countries.