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World ‘will not see significant return to coal’ in 2026 – despite Iran crisis - Carbon Brief

Abatify Summary

Nature & Climate Perspective

**The resilience against a coal resurgence ensures that critical carbon sinks and biodiversity hotspots avoid the localized degradation and heavy metal contamination typically associated with expanded mining operations. **

  • Mitigates the expansion of LULUCF-disrupting infrastructure, preserving indigenous habitats that would otherwise be cleared for coal extraction.
  • Reduces the risk of acidification in Blue Carbon ecosystems by maintaining a downward trajectory for sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions.
  • Strengthens long-term environmental stability by reinforcing the 1.5°C pathway, which is essential for the survival of coral reefs and primary forest biomes.

Market & Policy Outlook

**The market's refusal to pivot back to coal, even during geopolitical volatility, signals a permanent shift toward I-RECs and Article 6. 2 frameworks as the primary drivers of energy security.**

  • Aligns with ICVCM Core Carbon Principles by ensuring that the baseline for additionality in renewable energy projects remains aggressive rather than reverting to high-emission scenarios.
  • Accelerates corporate compliance with SBTi Net-Zero standards as the perceived 'safety net' of coal power diminishes, forcing investment into Scope 2 decarbonization.
  • Enhances financial liquidity for technical carbon removals and ITMOs as sovereign states prioritize long-term grid transition over short-term fossil fuel subsidies.
Clean-energy projects are emerging as more appealing investments during the fossil-fuel driven energy crisis.

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