A Treaty for a Fossil-Free Future: How Sadiq Khan Is Helping Cities Lead the Charge
What Is the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty?
As climate impacts intensify around the world from deadly heatwaves to rising seas a growing number of scientists, city leaders, and campaigners are calling for a bold and coordinated global response: a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty.
Inspired by the nuclear non-proliferation treaty, this initiative aims to end the expansion of fossil fuels, phase out existing production, and accelerate a just and equitable energy transition. It’s an international campaign designed to plug a critical gap in the Paris Agreement — by tackling the root cause of the climate crisis: coal, oil, and gas.
Backed by thousands of health professionals, Nobel laureates, youth activists, Indigenous communities, and over 100 cities, the #FossilFuelTreaty is gaining momentum as a people-powered solution to deliver cleaner air, better health, and climate justice.
Sadiq Khan Steps In: London’s Mayor Named Special Envoy for Fossil Fuel Free Cities
In a powerful show of leadership, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has been appointed Special Envoy for Fossil Fuel Free Cities under the Fossil Fuel Treaty Initiative. His mission? To help cities take centre stage in the race to end fossil fuel dependency and build a more just, breathable future.
“As Special Envoy, I am committed to ensuring that cities and subnational governments are not just heard but actively involved in shaping the global response to this crisis,” said Khan.
“The Fossil Fuel Treaty Initiative represents an important step toward a sustainable, healthier future for all.”
Sadiq Khan’s track record speaks volumes. From expanding London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) to investing in clean public transport, Khan has made health and environmental justice core pillars of his leadership. Now, as Special Envoy, he’s taking London’s voice — and the voices of cities everywhere — to the global stage.
Why Cities Matter in the Fossil Fuel Fight
Cities generate over 70% of global carbon emissions, yet they’re often sidelined in international climate negotiations. The Fossil Fuel Treaty seeks to change that by:
Empowering cities to divest from fossil fuels
Encouraging bold policies to reduce oil and gas dependency
Prioritising clean, equitable public transport and energy solutions
Elevating the lived experiences of citizens affected by air pollution, heat, and extractive industries
With worsening air quality, energy poverty, and climate-related health impacts hitting urban communities hardest, cities are uniquely placed to push for urgent and inclusive solutions. The Treaty gives them the backing and the global platform to do just that.
Momentum Is Building — But So Are the Stakes
As fossil fuel companies continue to expand drilling, despite clear warnings from the International Energy Agency and the UN, it’s clearer than ever: We cannot meet our climate goals without a fast, fair fossil fuel phaseout.
That’s why nearly 3,500 scientists and academics, over 100 parliamentarians, and more than 2,000 civil society organisations have signed on to support the Treaty. And as cities like Paris, Los Angeles, Lima, and now London step up, this treaty could become one of the most important global climate tools of our time.
From Treaty to Transformation: The Vision Ahead
The Fossil Fuel Treaty is not just a policy framework — it's a moral call to action. It recognizes that phasing out fossil fuels isn’t only about emissions; it's about:
Cleaner air and healthier communities
Climate-resilient economies and green jobs
Global solidarity and intergenerational justice
By naming Sadiq Khan as Special Envoy, the campaign is strengthening its commitment to city-led transformation. It’s a timely recognition that cities can be both victims and heroes in the climate emergency.
A Fossil-Free Future Begins With Courageous Leadership
The Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty is a rallying cry for leaders everywhere to face facts, ditch fossil fuels, and fast-track a fair energy future. With Sadiq Khan helping amplify the role of cities, the movement gains not just momentum — but muscle.
As the climate crisis deepens, one thing is clear: the future must be fossil fuel free — and the time to act is now.
Learn more about the call for a Fossil Fuel Treaty and join the coalition here