Global Social Challenges

The Climate and Energy Transition
Serge le Strat

Why this research?

A transition to a low carbon world is underway. This shift will drastically change what we were used to. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) concluded that urgent action must be taken in the coming years to prevent a climate disaster. 

Purpose of the research

Our research focuses on that challenge. How can the existing situation be changed? Who are the key figures in this? And what exactly needs to change? How can old and new powers unite to meet the climate challenges of our time?

Geographical areas of interest

Our current projects focus on the following geographical areas of interest: the Arctic, Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America.

Two research objectives

Within a wide range of issues, there are two overarching research objectives.

1. A just transition

The first objective concerns research into what a just transition means for global societies. How do we respond to job losses in this transition? Our projects investigate what this means for key stakeholders in society. Think trade unions, the government and the business community. 

2. Energy transitions across borders

The second important research objective is energy transition across borders. What problems do countries face if they act together to achieve a low-carbon future? We examine some of the most controversial examples around the world. This allows us to share what has worked with our key stakeholders.

dr. Iain Todd

"The challenge of climate change is critical for all nations, and for all sectors of society. To meet our international targets, we must do all we can to develop an energy transition which is both equitable and effective."

  • Uppsala University, Sweden
  • Central European University
  • Nizhny Novgorod State Technical University, Russia
  • University of Wits, South Africa
  • University of Hong Kong

  • Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy
  • UNISON
  • COOP Energy
  • Milieu Defensie
  • TNO
  • EDF
  • World Energy Council
  • Just Transition Commission
  • Deloitte Poland

H2020 JUST NORTH, Dutch NWO Council

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