Trend: Change the way we live

A trend indicates a direction of change in values and needs which is driven by forces and manifests itself already in various ways within certain groups in society

Living inside planetary boundaries would require fundamental changes in the way we live. Radical changes in our way of life are necessary to stop the continuation of global warming and environmental degradation and to prevent its worst effects.

These changes include new technological solutions that reduce resource consumption and emissions, a radical change in human behaviour, and a more resource-efficient economy. Another aspect is the removal of subsidies to fossil fuels, because they are slowing down the climate transition. The implementation of these solutions poses an enormous economic and societal challenge. However, the challenge will become even more difficult and costly if action is postponed.

This Trend is part of the Megatrend Climate change and environmental degradation

Manifestations

Developments happening in certain groups in society that indicate examples of change. 

Change across the board

All economic sectors are transforming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Limiting climate change to 1.5°C requires fundamental technological changes. Unfortunately, there is no one technological option that will be sufficient on its own. While the energy sector accounts for the main share of greenhouse gas emissions, all sectors have to transform to achieve climate neutrality. Using a portfolio of options in an integrated approach will be the most cost-efficient path towards climate neutrality. Such a portfolio includes climate neutral solutions to generate power, manufacture goods, transport, and grow food. The increase of energy efficiency is also an important way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Signals of change: EC, EC, KPMG

Closing the loop and rounding the square

The economy is becoming more circular. Resource extraction and processing cause biodiversity loss and greenhouse gas emissions. A circular economy aims to reduce the resource input of an economy by closing energy and material loops. In other words - it aims to reduce waste and keep products in use for as long as possible. Ways to make the economy more 'circular' include sharing, reusing, repairing and recycling items to extend the lifecycle of a product and its materials.

Signals of change: EC, Eurostat, Lange

Put your money where your mouth is

Unsustainable subsidies remain high. Subsidies towards fossil fuels have several drawbacks. They slow down the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and support solutions that cause local air pollution. Particularly in less wealthy countries, fossil fuel subsidies can lead to increasing levels of debt and fiscal pressure. Such subsidies lead to uneconomic decisions that hinder not only a sustainable environmental, but also sustainable economic development.

Signals of change: EC, IMF, IEA, Sumaila

Interesting questions

What might this trend imply, what should we be aware of, what could we study in more depth? Some ideas:

• What are the systemic technological pathways that will help us to reach climate neutrality?
• Is the behavioural change that is necessary to support a sustainable world going to be possible? How?
• Will Europe be the only region that substantially reduces their emissions, or will it be a global effort?
• What if we fail in the education of 'sustainable thinking' for future generations?
• What if we get into more geopolitical issues?
• What if crises like COVID-19 or the war in Ukraine continue, or will increase in frequency and duration?
• What if the general public completely loses trust in institutions and the political level?