Fixing the Economy to Fix Climate Change

We need to change the way we think about climate change in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) and meet the targets set out in the Paris Agreement. Energy efficiency and switching to renewable energy is only half the story. It is vital, but would only address 55% of global emissions. To reach net-zero, we also need to change the way we make and use products, materials, and food. By adopting the three principles of the circular economy in the products, services and systems we design, we can also cut greenhouse gas emissions and start to tackle the remaining 45% of emissions associated with industry, agriculture, and land use that the energy transition can’t address by eliminating waste and pollution, by circulating products and materials, and by regenerating nature.