A new study analyzes three scenarios for green hydrogen production and trade, highlighting the need for policymakers and businesses to address uncertainties in global supply chains. The Fuel Switch scenario assumes stable alliances, but may misdirect investment; Industrial Relocation shifts production to low-cost regions with abundant ...
A new study finds that multilateral development banks are failing to adequately address environmental and social risks in green hydrogen projects. The current guidelines lack hydrogen-specific criteria, leaving critical policy gaps.
Negotiations for a global plastics treaty stalled in August, hindering progress on addressing marine plastic pollution. Experts warn that current procedures lack prioritization and clear rules, jeopardizing efforts to tackle the crisis. The authors propose three key changes to revive talks and address the issue holistically.
A global strategy is required to address the issue of reduced ozone decline despite decreased emissions of precursor pollutants in North America and Europe. The study found that increased transport of ozone from abroad is the main driver of the weaker-than-expected decline of ozone levels.
A new study by researchers from ETH Zurich, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg and Research Institute for Sustainability found that European citizens prefer solar power and decentralized energy systems over lower costs. The study suggests that incorporating social data into energy modeling can lead to more realistic and socially acceptab...
A team from the Research Institute for Sustainability finds that supply structure changes, geopolitical competition, and decarbonization drive fertiliser market shifts. To address these challenges, coordinated measures are needed, including promoting sustainable fertiliser management practices and reducing synthetic fertiliser use.
A new study by RIFS researcher Jörg Radtke finds that e-participation solutions can play a key role in the implementation of the energy transition. Citizens are open towards using online tools for creative input and visualization-based planning, but require clear communication strategies to build trust.
The study evaluates climate-warming emissions in Germany's future hydrogen economy and provides recommendations for policymakers to minimize impacts. Hydrogen production emits methane, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen itself, with global warming potential more than eleven times higher than CO2.
A new EU study suggests that focusing on citizens' needs rather than economic growth is crucial for achieving sustainable lifestyles. The research identifies the economic growth paradigm as a major barrier to transformation, and recommends a needs-oriented approach to ensure well-being and sustainability.
A new study by RIFS suggests that voluntary reductions in living space can contribute to achieving EU's climate and housing goals. European citizens are willing to embrace smaller living under the right circumstances, with a preference for centrally-located apartments in green neighborhoods.
A survey conducted by RIFS shows that 91% of Jordanian citizens want to see an expansion of renewable energies. They hope this will create jobs, improve energy security, and reduce costs. However, the government's policy of blocking renewables has stalled the energy transition.
Citizens in Denmark, Germany, Poland, and Portugal prefer decentralized renewable energy systems with high rooftop solar shares. They value low electricity prices and reduced dependence on imports over technology preferences.
The Research Institute for Sustainability developed an energy justice index to measure fairness in the Global South's energy transitions. The index highlights countries like Malaysia and Chile as leaders in distributional justice, while Kenya and Jordan excel in procedural justice.
A study by Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) found no significant correlation between Industry 4.0 adoption and reduced energy intensity in Chinese manufacturing. Despite potential gains in efficiency, digitalisation may lead to increased energy consumption due to growth-promoting effects and 'digital rebound' phenomena.
The Green Climate Fund has struggled to mobilize financial resources from the private sector, with only a small share of its $40 billion budget coming from private sources. A new study suggests that this is due to perceptions of unprofitable investments and lack of attractive business models, particularly in climate adaptation.
A new study suggests that policymakers should emphasize the benefits of climate action beyond economic growth to motivate countries to protect the climate. The researchers analyzed 761 statements from UN member states and found that countries are influenced by how their allies frame issues.
A study by the Research Institute for Sustainability found that Nepal's long-term strategy for net-zero emissions can deliver large reductions in air pollutant emissions and improve energy security. The strategy also promises to boost equity, with benefits including improved health outcomes and reduced impacts on climate change.
Researchers found that economic crises can trigger long-lasting decarbonization processes through increased energy efficiency, structural changes, and shifts towards renewable energy sources. Countries that have already implemented ambitious climate policies have been particularly adept in times of crisis.
In Germany, community participation in decision-making processes and sharing of financial benefits from renewables projects enhanced public support. However, recent delays and corporate investments have led to resentment. In contrast, Australia's decentralized approach to its power grid, including community energy projects, aims to bri...
A new study finds that public-private partnerships and energy initiatives can partially address technology transfer deficits but are insufficient. China's success in attracting technology transfer through foreign direct investment is seen as an alternative model for developing countries.
Researchers highlight need for stronger integration of international negotiations to protect the ocean. They emphasize the importance of the ecosystem approach and regional environmental management plans in achieving a more cohesive global governance solution.
A study by IASS researchers found that strong renewable energy industries lead to more ambitious renewable energy policies in subsequent years. The authors suggest that policy choices can enhance innovative capacity and promote local value creation to achieve the Paris Agreement's 1.5°C goal.
Researchers argue that methane's climate impact is inadequately represented in existing governance frameworks, neglecting its role in near-term climate change and air pollution. Policymakers can take swift action with available technologies and cost-effective measures to reduce methane emissions.
Current mining practices can be improved through effective policies and stakeholder involvement. A more sustainable extractive industry can supply key raw materials for renewable energy technologies and support the UN Sustainable Development Goals. To achieve this, diverse stakeholders must participate in governance at different levels.
A study finds that Industry 4.0 technologies have largely failed to improve resource efficiency and reduce emissions, contrary to company expectations. However, companies with high digitalisation levels are better positioned to align production with demand and improve sustainability performance.
A study by RIFS researcher Silke Niehoff analyzed DAX company sustainability reports and found that most prioritize customer demands and efficiency over environmental concerns. However, a few companies are using digitalization to promote sustainable development and serve as role models.
A new study reveals how Bolsonaro's supporters are misusing satellite data to promote economic development at the expense of environmental protection. The researchers found that far-right groups are creating alternative 'truths' about deforestation, questioning the validity of scientific findings and sowing confusion among the public.
A study suggests that CO2 mineralization can reduce cement production emissions by 8-33% without additional costs, bringing in potential profits of up to €32 per tonne of cement. Governments and the industry must find ways to incentivize this reduction, including mechanisms like subsidy programs and investment in low-carbon plants.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a plant that can produce carbon-neutral liquid fuels from sunlight and air. The technology has been tested successfully and is now mature enough for industrial applications.
The EU's carbon border adjustment mechanism could significantly impact countries like Bosnia and Herzegovina, Morocco, and Mozambique due to their high exposure and vulnerability to the mechanism. To mitigate this, the EU should provide financial and technical support to these countries to aid in decarbonisation efforts.
Countries lagging behind in renewable energy adoption risk lower industrial competitiveness and economic instability. Uneven transition patterns can exacerbate existing international tensions, making it difficult for late decarbonizers to catch up with early movers.
A study by Research Institute for Sustainability reveals that barriers to reducing plastic packaging consumption include habits, lack of knowledge, hygiene concerns, and economic factors. To achieve zero-waste shopping, cultural and infrastructural changes are necessary, including making alternative options more affordable and convenient.
A new study by Silvia Weko reveals that political ideology plays a larger role than party preferences in shaping attitudes towards climate policy among Europeans. Cosmopolitan attitudes are more positive towards climate action, while communitarian minds are more concerned with energy security and economic development.
Researchers examine how governments use stakeholder commissions to legitimize their transition policies, finding similarities and differences between the two countries. Both Canada and Germany face challenges in phasing out coal due to job losses and regional concerns.
A recent study found that ozone pollution in Germany has decreased primarily due to reduced nitrogen oxide emissions. Ozone formation is often linked to NOx emissions from traffic and industrial processes. Lower NOx levels are positively correlated with lower ozone concentrations, especially in regions like southwestern Germany.
A study by RIFS researchers highlights the need for digital innovation to be guided by a systemic perspective acknowledging environmental, economic, and socio-cultural impacts. This includes professional technology assessments and inclusive decision-making processes to foster sustainable development.
A new study reveals that energy models play a significant role in shaping the energy transition, influencing policy decisions and informing energy futures. Policymakers are increasingly relying on modeling outputs to define energy and climate targets, while researchers demand greater transparency to protect model credibility.
The Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated financing challenges and hampered investment in renewable energy infrastructure in low- and middle-income countries. Despite this, frontrunners in the global energy transition will continue to expand their renewable energy capacities.
A new study combines complexity science and social risk management to understand the impact of globalization, digitalization, and sustainabilization on societal coherence. The research finds that rapid shifts in public opinion and the emergence of populist movements can pose a threat to diversity and cohesion.
Reducing short-lived climate-forcing pollutants (SLCPs) can mitigate climate change, human health issues, and food insecurity by slowing down near-term climate warming and improving crop yields.
Researchers recommend integrating modelling tools and empirical data to gain a comprehensive understanding of systemic risks. Effective governance requires interdisciplinary cooperation, close monitoring systems, and public stakeholder participation to ensure adaptable and inclusive management of these complex risks.
A new study highlights the importance of coordinated policy reforms in supporting renewable electricity across EU member states. Without coordination, investors may shift their focus to subsidized technologies or countries with available subsidies, increasing the overall costs of expanding renewable energy generation in Europe. Strengt...
A transition to hydrogen-powered mobility in Germany's heavy duty vehicle segment could achieve a deep reduction in emissions, with potential of -57 MtCO2eq annually. Green hydrogen offers competitive advantages over battery electric vehicles, particularly for heavy loads and longer driving ranges.
A new study analyzes Germany's bilateral energy partnerships, which are a key instrument of the country's 'soft power' strategy. The partnerships aim to promote climate-friendly technologies and solutions abroad, reflecting Germany's domestic consensus on its energy transition.
Researchers warn that climate engineering modelling often produces overly optimistic 'best-case' scenarios, which can influence research, policy, and industry planning. The authors recommend increasing stakeholder input and clearer communication to forestall this trend.
The CabildoXLatAm platform hosts a participatory digital space for Latin America's civil society actors, governments, and communities to discuss new forms of governance. The event aims to design a roadmap for self-management and address regional challenges such as food sovereignty and digital governance.
A new study by researchers in Potsdam and Zurich shows that smaller scale systems incur a cost penalty of less than 20% compared to continental-scale systems. However, with cooperation between grid operators and neighboring grids, the cost penalties can be reduced, supporting current efforts to establish a European electricity market.
A new study finds that transitioning to renewable energy in Europe can reduce land requirements by prioritizing offshore wind power and large solar parks. The study suggests that these alternatives can achieve a fully renewable electricity supply while minimizing additional costs.
The article highlights the importance of a risk governance framework in overcoming crises like Covid-19. Five key aspects are particularly relevant: increasing global capacities for scientific appraisal, analyzing public opinion and perception, effective crisis communication, risk evaluation, and management strategies.
A comparative study by researchers from RIFS finds that both Germany and the UK can do more to mitigate climate change in the heating sector. The authors recommend introducing a commitment to phasing out high-carbon heating and embedding it in planned policy interventions.