 Goal 13 of the Sustainable Development Goals, Climate Action, The Coal Phase Out in the European Union Burning fossil fuels is how most of the world generates power. When fossil fuels are burned they release chemicals that have bad effects on the planet. A finite number of fossil fuels mean that once they're gone, other forms of energy will be needed. The European Union is one of the leading contributors in coal emissions with over 300 power plants. The EU has signed the Paris Agreement and joined the global effort to limiting global warming. The agreement plans to limit global warming to below 2 °C and limit increases to 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels. In order to remain in its carbon budget, the EU must implement a strategy to phase out coal at a faster rate. There are currently two options for the European Union to begin to reduce their use of coal. One method is to shut down the most carbon intensive plants first. The second is to shut down the least valuable plants in terms of revenue generation potential. Both of these strategies will help the EU phase out coal at a much faster rate. The coal phase out is just another step toward the ultimate goal of making the planet a healthier place to live. Facing out coal is only the beginning towards creating a better world.