United Nations Environment Programme

environment for development

Kick The Habit, A UN guide to climate neutrality

 

Introduction

Climate change is the defining issue of our era. Hardly a day passes without a newspaper, a broadcast or a politician making at least one reference to the threats it poses and the urgency of taking action, immediately to limit the effects and, in the longer term, to adapt to the changes that are sure to come.

For climate change is upon us, and the problem is here to stay. But it is still in our power – as individuals, businesses, cities and governments – to influence just how serious the problem will become. We have the choice how to act, but the change we need to make ourselves. We can make a difference by supporting the transition to a climate-neutral world. This concept – climate neutrality – is the subject of this book.

True, there is a huge gulf between where we are now and the climate-neutral future that we need if we are to achieve sustainable development. But the message of this book is that the gulf is not uncrossable and that there is also a lot to gain. It will take patience, persistence and determination, but it can be done.

There is plenty of information and advice about how to live a greener, cleaner life. What is often difficult is finding your way through it all – knowing what gets results fast, what really delivers instead of just being greenwash, and what works best for you. If you are confused, this book is certainly for you. It should provide the answers you want. It explains in practical terms how individuals, companies, corporations, cities and countries can start to change. And even if you are not confused, the book will provide you with some useful additional information.

Climate neutrality

Four reasons to become climate neutral

Mitigating climate change addresses all these factors – directly or indirectly

Tackling climate change: mitigation and adaptation

Fat versus thin?

Who is responsible?


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