The G7 countries could lead the way in phasing out coal, the highly polluting fossil fuel responsible for much of global greenhouse gas emissions, said Minister of Energy and Climate of Germany Robert Habeck, AP reported.

Senior officials from the G-7 countries will hold a three-day meeting in Berlin, during which they will try to agree on common goals for the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, which scientists say is essential to curb climate change.

The G7 can take on a certain pioneering role to move forward the phase-out of coal for power generation and the decarbonization of the transportation system, Robert Habeck said, AP reported.

The issue could be brought to the G-7 leaders' summit in Elmau next month and then to the G20 meeting later this year, he said. Engaging the G20 countries in meeting the ambitious targets set by some of the most advanced economies will be key as countries such as China, India and Indonesia remain heavily dependent on coal.

Habek noted said it would be wrong to view countries' efforts to overcome the current energy crisis as counteracting efforts to phase out fossil fuels. 

The meeting in Berlin will also aim to reach agreements on increased financial aid to poor countries to fight climate change, additional funds to conserve biodiversity, protect the oceans and reduce plastic pollution.