In the context of global warming and energy price inflation, inequity is a double reality. On the one hand, vulnerable groups based on income, gender, age or geographical disadvantages suffer more from the effects of climate change and increased energy prices. On the other hand, the same groups are affected disproportionately by the impacts of climate policies.
Equity considerations need to be at the centre of re-designing policies for emissions reduction and needs-based energy.
Policy brief
Equitable 1.5-Degree Lifestyles
How socially fair policies can support the implementation of the European Green Deal
- Policies need to be designed in a way that ensures the fulfilment of basic needs like food, shelter, and energy provision for everyone. Â
- We need stronger measures directed at the emissions of wealthier segments of the population in order to make 1.5-Degree Lifestyles equitable.
- Today’s carbon inequality is reflected by the fact that since 1990, the GHG emissions generated by the bottom 50% of the EU’s population by income have fallen by 24% while those generated by the top 10% have risen by 3%.
- Â Operationalising the just transition means putting equity considerations at the heart of the policy measures.Â
Food, housing, and mobility are the highest-emission areas of consumption, with the largest reduction potential in 1) animal-based products, 2) individual car ownership and flights, as well as 3) the per capita living area, which needs to be heated, cooled, and equipped.
The uneven contribution to GHG emissions in the EU between the bottom 5% and bottom 50% of emitters on the one hand, and the top 10% and top 1% of emitters on the other hand, raises substantial ethical and equity concerns.
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