Dr. Florentine Koppenborg published a paper in Environmental Politics on ‘Phase-out clubs: an effective tool for global climate governance?’
Paper abstract:
Despite gaining attention, climate clubs focused on phase-outs – terminating specific substances, processes, or technologies – have yet to be systematically assessed. This study analyses different aspects of six phase-out clubs, including the Powering Past Coal Alliance (PPCA). Aspects include: (1) membership size and composition; (2) adopted obligations; (3) member compliance; (4) member benefits; and (5) club function within the climate regime. The first three aspects come from regime effectiveness theory, while the last two come from club theory. Findings reveal these clubs as state-led, multi-stakeholder coalitions aiming to complement the Paris Agreement and build global momentum within the UNFCCC to phase out fossil fuels. The Global Methane Pledge, potentially the most effective club, combines low entry barriers, deep commitments, material and other exclusive member benefits, and members represent a large share of targeted emissions.
The paper is available here: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/09644016.2025.2483070#abstract
