The speed we’re at will take us into the wall. Observation is tough. But the researchers don’t stop there. Today, they also offer us several effective ways to get back on track.
Limit anthropogenic global warming. The work seems difficult at times. Insurmountable, even, when scientists warn us against the possible unfortunate effects of some of our strategies, for example, that the large-scale use of bioenergy may conflict with food production. But they believe that there is what they describe “Pathways to Sustainable Development”. “Moving toward a world that allows people to thrive on a healthier planet, strategies that prevent dangerous climate change.” »
Sustainability remains achievable.
An ambitious program, one of which researchers at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK, Germany) are now detailing along these lines. Environmental Research Letters. Their models gave them three different sustainable development paths, but which could be equally effective. “We face a big challenge, but we can reach it. DurabilityDurability There was so much hope.Bas van Rooyen, researcher at the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (Austria), assured in a press release.
Of the pathways presented in the study, two predict gradual changes in diet and consumption.EnergyEnergy. They are counting on rapid growth. The matterThe matter on green technologies or large-scale orchestration of systemic changes by governments.
Restoring climate and biodiversity while caring for humans
The last resort, researchers say. “Sustainable Lifestyle”corresponds to a rapid transition to a flexible diet. Understand, a primarily vegetarian diet, but one that allows the occasional consumption of meat. Good for the climate, it is also known to have substantial benefits for human health. The path would also include a reduction in final energy consumption per capita of about 40 percent by 2050, with rich countries contributing the most to reducing energy inequality. “Changes like this can create problems about them. RealismRealism For Citizens »underline the researchers. However, they have the advantage of not relying on unproven technologies and providing highly positive outcomes for biodiversity and climate protection.
“If we continue on our current trajectory, none of the Sustainable Development Goals will be achieved. By 2030, 660 million people may still live in extreme poverty and environmental crises, such as biodiversity loss and Global WarmingGlobal Warmingwill only get worse. So it is clear that we must act now. We can always choose sustainable paths forward, but ignoring them is no longer an option.concluded study co-author Elmer Crigler.
