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The solutions for transitioning to sustainability involve innovative social practices, technologies and business models. Sustainability transitions are society‑wide, long-term processes built on innovation and knowledge creation. The nature of the many crises we face means that now, more than ever, we need to stick to our long-term sustainability goals and policy aims and anchor these environmental and wellbeing aims into the new priority areas like security and competitiveness.
Responding to the persistent and emerging challenges facing Europe will require transitions in the production‑consumption systems driving impacts on the environment and health. Transitions involve the emergence and upscaling of diverse innovations. There is a need for more emphasis on social innovation, behavioural change and nature-based solutions.
Multiple actors are involved in producing and implementing sustainability solutions: businesses, citizens, researchers, policymakers, social movements and interest groups. Still, governments can promote system innovation, including by supporting experimentation, correcting market failures, facilitating the spread of new ideas and approaches, and helping ensure a just transition. Governments can accelerate systemic change by helping cities to innovate and network, by reorienting financial flows towards sustainable investments and by developing relevant knowledge systems and skills.
There is no “silver bullet”, no one-size-fits-all solution, when it comes to sustainability transitions. For a sustainable mobility system, for example, the introduction of the electric motor is not enough. New electric cars would still imply substantial resource use, pollution and congestion.
The fundamental issue is not how to create a more sustainable car, but rather how to meet society’s need for point to-point mobility and for social interaction and access to goods and services: from car-sharing schemes, driverless cars and a shift to alternative modes of transport (e.g. walking, cycling) to improved spatial planning and novel communication technologies that can reduce the need for mobility (e.g. teleworking).
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How can Europe build a more sustainable and competitive future?
Europe faces growing environmental risks, rapid technological change and an uncertain global economy. The choices made today will shape how well Europe responds to these challenges in the years ahead.
The report looks at what could shape Europe's future towards 2040 and identifies six ways to help make Europe more sustainable, resilient and competitive.
How can circular businesses grow across Europe?
Businesses that repair, reuse and share products can help reduce waste and make better use of resources. However, many struggle to grow and reach more customers.
The briefing looks at the challenges these businesses face and what could help them become more widespread across Europe.
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Arif Miletli, Sustainably Yours /EEA
How can Europe make the shift to sustainability fair for everyone?
Moving towards a greener economy can bring benefits but some people and communities may face greater challenges than others.
Our report looks at how Europe can make this shift fairer and ensure that people have a say in decisions that affect their lives.