This article was originally published on Ecofys and is republished with permission.

As a trusted partner for governments, NGOs and corporate companies, Ecofys takes up the challenge of 1.5 degrees. The consultancy is developing a one of a kind strategy to stimulate action and accelerate the transformation of the energy system in line with the Paris Agreement. 

To achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement without undue reliance on future ‘negative emissions’, the emissions from the energy system have to be brought to zero as soon as possible, well before 2050. Unlike referring to 1.5°C, bringing emissions down to zero is an actionable target that helps the public understand what needs to be done. 

Introducing the proposed strategy on behalf of Ecofys, Kornelis Blok of Ecofys said: “The core of the strategy is based on extensive engagement with external stakeholders and it incorporates drivers to accelerate momentum in an innovative model.” 

Ecofys is currently talking to other organisations to partner in the design and implementation of the strategy. The change required will need the public at large: as households, as consumers, and as climate-conscious voters. And they need to be involved from the start. What is needed is not more scenarios, but a comprehensive strategy, with a broader view than GHG emissions trajectories alone.

This transformation, required within decades, can only work if it builds on existing momentum, both in technology uptake and in societal trends. The focus of the work will be to capture that momentum and accelerate the rate of transformation.

How can we ensure sustained momentum towards meeting the climate goals in the future?