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The Narrowing Window: A Call to Action for Climate Stability

As COP29 approaches later this month, once again, all eyes are on global policymakers to affect meaningful change in tackling the climate crisis.

4 November 2024
Birds eye view of a Brazilian forest with river running through it

Photo by Felipe Dias on Unsplash

The goal of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels remains theoretically possible. 1.5C is alive – but only just. Achieving this target demands urgent and significant action. Current national pledges and actions fall short, necessitating unprecedented global cooperation and commitment, particularly from major emitters. The window for effective action is closing fast.

To meet the 1.5°C target, we must implement a multifaceted approach. First and foremost, we need to rapidly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This involves transitioning away from fossil fuels and adopting cleaner technologies. The shift to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power is essential. These sources not only reduce emissions but also provide sustainable energy solutions that can power our future green economy without further harming the planet.

Enhancing energy efficiency across all sectors is another critical step. By upgrading infrastructure, adopting energy-saving technologies, and promoting energy-efficient practices, we can significantly cut down on emissions. This requires a concerted effort from governments, businesses, and individuals alike.

Global cooperation and policy are vital in this effort. Countries must work together to set and achieve ambitious climate goals, sharing technology and resources to support global efforts. The COP29 summit in Baku underscores the importance of international collaboration, with leaders emphasising the need for a new climate finance goal to reflect the scale and urgency of the climate challenge. This goal is expected to be established at COP30 in Brazil, highlighting the critical role of financial support in driving climate action.

Public awareness and engagement are vitally important too. Raising awareness about climate change and its impacts can drive collective action. Engaging the public through education and community programs can foster a deeper understanding of the issues at hand and inspire individuals to take meaningful action.

So, what is the role of higher education institutes in addressing the global climate crisis?

Universities and colleges are not only centres of learning but also hubs of innovation and research. They have the unique ability to drive climate action through education, research, modelling sustainable practices, and community engagement.

Universities are at the forefront of educating the next generation of leaders, scientists, and policymakers

Professor David Hannah

By integrating climate education into curricula (exemplified by the University of Birmingham’s embedding sustainability into all courses) higher education institutions can equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle the climate crisis. Climate literacy fosters a deeper understanding of the issues and empowers students to make informed decisions that contribute to sustainability.

Higher education institutions are also key players in climate research and innovation. Universities conduct cutting-edge research that advances our understanding of climate change and develops new technologies to mitigate its impacts. For example, research into renewable energy technologies, carbon capture and storage, watering the green transition, and sustainable agriculture practices can drive significant progress in reducing emissions and enhancing resilience.

Universities have a responsibility to engage with local communities and raise public awareness about climate change. Through outreach programs, public lectures, and partnerships with local organisations, higher education institutions can foster a culture of sustainability and inspire collective action. Engaging the public in climate initiatives ensures that solutions are locally relevant and widely supported.

Higher education institutions can lead by example by adopting sustainable practices on their campuses. This includes reducing energy consumption, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and promoting waste reduction and recycling. By creating more sustainable campuses, universities demonstrate their commitment to climate action and serve as models for other organizations and communities. The University of Birmingham has a commitment to sustainability in across all professional services divisions, from responsible investment to waste management to our Net Zero Carbon Plan.

Universities can also play a crucial role in shaping climate policy. By leading policy-relevant research and engaging with policymakers, higher education institutions can influence the development of effective climate strategies. Academics and researchers can provide valuable insights and evidence to support ambitious climate goals and advocate for stronger climate policies at local, national, and international levels. Birmingham Institute for Sustainability and Climate Action (BISCA) is at the forefront of this, as we co-create new research questions and find solutions by working in partnership with policy and decision makers.

COP30, happening in Belém, Brazil in 2025, is crucial as it marks the deadline for countries to submit their new climate action plans (NDCs). Hosting the event in Brazil highlights the importance of the Amazon rainforest in combating climate change and emphasises involving local communities directly affected by climate policies.

The goals for COP30 emphasise the critical steps we must take to secure a sustainable future. Higher education institutions have a vital role to play in this effort. By educating the next generation, advancing climate research, engaging with communities, acting as sustainable organisations, and advocating for effective policies, universities can drive meaningful progress in addressing the climate crisis. Balancing emission reductions with adaptation and resilience will help us build a sustainable and resilient future.

The role of Universities in tackling the climate crisis

This perspective underscores the urgency and complexity of the climate crisis, highlighting the need for immediate action, global cooperation, and comprehensive strategies to achieve the 1.5°C target. The role of higher education is crucial in driving this effort, providing the knowledge, innovation, and leadership needed to tackle the climate challenge effectively.

Featured staff

  • Professor David Hannah

    Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sustainability)

    David M. Hannah is Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sustainability), Professor of Hydrology and UNESCO Chair in Water Sciences, and Director of the Birmingham Institute for Sustainability & Climate Action.

    Phone: +44 (0)121 41 46925 (for own research)
    Email: d.m.hannah@bham.ac.uk

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