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Calls for fundamental transformations in Europe’s societal systems reflect a recognition of both the scale of change needed to achieve long-term sustainability, and the systemic nature of the challenge. Global megatrends such as the spread of western consumption patterns and associated resource demands are imposing increasing burdens on ecosystems. Reconciling projected growth in the global economy with finite environmental boundaries can only be achieved through fundamental changes in core systems of production and consumption. Yet there are major obstacles to achieving these changes, since the systems that account for a large proportion of our environmental pressures are also linked in complex ways to benefits and interests such as jobs, investments, lifestyles and values. Interventions are therefore likely to produce complex and uncertain trade-offs, driving resistance from those bearing the costs.
Research in this area is expanding rapidly, addressing the global forces that call for transitions, the characteristics and functioning of core systems, and the processes and governance measures that could catalyse and steer systemic change. The relevant literature emphasises the importance not just of innovative technologies but also new practices and behaviours, underpinned by shifts in beliefs and values. The complexity and uncertainty of systemic change also points to the need for carefully designed policy mixes, as well as open and adaptive styles of governance. Recognising that much of the knowledge needed to tackle the complex challenges of 21st century is dispersed across society, governments will often need to engage with businesses and civil society as active partners.
The EU’s Eighth Environment Action Programme includes the vision that we will ensure wellbeing for all, while staying within the planetary boundaries.
As elaborated there and in other EU policies, achieving that vision will require far-reaching changes in systems of production and consumption. For example, the Roadmap to a Low-Carbon Economy establishes a goal of cutting EU greenhouse gas emissions by 80 % by 2050, while the Circular Economy Strategy targets major improvements in waste reduction and management by 2030. At the global level, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals provide a rich collection of targets that address both socio-economic and environmental dimensions of sustainability.
The EEA is tackling the issue of sustainability transitions at a range of scales and using a mixture of analytical approaches. This work includes:
For references, please go to https://www.eea.europa.eu/themes/sustainability-transitions/intro or scan the QR code.
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