Governments Urged to Set Climate Mandates to Trigger Positive Tipping Points in Clean Energy Transition

The term “tipping point” often conjures up catastrophic climate scenarios, but new research suggests it could be reframed positively. A report from the University of Exeter’s Global Systems Institute argues that governments can trigger “positive tipping points” by introducing regulatory mandates that require key industries to shift to clean energy.

These mandates, with specific deadlines, would accelerate the transition from fossil fuels, slash carbon emissions, and lower consumer costs. The study, based on data from 70 countries, found that mandates are more effective than taxes or subsidies in driving the rapid adoption of clean technologies in sectors like energy, transport, and heating.

Recommendations include phasing out coal power for developed countries by 2035 and requiring 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035. Experts stress the urgency, with global CO2 emissions needing to be halved by 2030 to avoid severe climate impacts. Read More

News Credit: The Guardian

Picture Credit: John Walton/PA