Renewable Revolution: Low-Carbon Energy by 2030

Humanity can prevent catastrophic climate change if we act now and adopt policies that reduce energy usage by unleashing the full potential of energy efficiency in concert with renewable energy resources. However, this goal is not likely to be achieved if our only measure of success is emissions reductions; climate change is fundamentally a development issue, not a pollution problem. As a result, target-setting has failed to achieve needed reductions in energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions to date.

What is needed is a transformation of the entire global energy system. No one benefits from the release of greenhouse gas emissions, but developed and developing nations alike will benefit in numerous ways from the transition to an energy-efficient and renewable world.

A strong international agreement can accelerate this transition, while recognition of the potential that these resources offers can encourage governments to set aggressive targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency as well as emissions reductions.

A combination of political will and the right policies can get the world on track to mitigate climate change in the near term while also meeting demand for energy services, providing energy access for the world