One of the key findings of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) Synthesis report is that solutions are currently available in all sectors of the economy that can at least halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
“The problem is getting worse,” explains Greg Nemet, a Canadian sustainability policy expert and IPCC author. “But we now have solutions that are so much cheaper than they were.”
After studying advances in solar technology, which has seen rapid expansion and price cuts, he is optimistic about our ability to avoid the worst possible climate outcomes.
In this week’s episode of our climate podcast Fear and Wonder, we speak with Greg about the pace of change in the solar industry and whether it can be replicated for other technologies.
Read more: Introducing Fear and Wonder: The Conversation’s new climate podcast
We also hear from fellow IPCC author and Algerian energy policy expert Yamina Saheb about the emissions reductions possible by adopting age-old sustainability concepts. She explains the idea of ”sufficiency”, which aims to reduce the overall demand for energy, materials, land and water, while still delivering human well-being for all.
Finally, we ask Greg and Yamina about carbon dioxide removal, one of the most controversial technologies assessed by the IPCC. Is it the miracle solution we’ve all been waiting for, or should we support the policies and technology options that are now with us?
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Fear and Wonder is sponsored by the Climate Councilan independent, fact-based organization dedicated to climate science, impacts and solutions.
