The results of COP30 are disappointing and reflect the complex geopolitical situation that prevented substantial progress. The proposed roadmap for a global phase-out of coal, oil and gas failed due to a strong opposition. Despite immense differences, many smaller decisions and successes were achieved.
CASRI advanced Environmental and Sustainability Research & Innovation in Europe through national expert workshops in 14 countries and regions. Informed by a desk study and interviews with National Key Stakeholders, these meetings gathered inputs to guide the development of the project’s Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda: as result a comprehensive report has been compiled.
The methodology used in CASRI to involve stakeholders in the various phases of the project has been published. The aim of the methodology is the co-creation of a strategic research and innovation agenda by national key stakeholders, environmental protection agencies and research funders in 14 project countries.
In April 2024, the EU-funded CASRI project (Collaborative Action for Systemic, Actionable, and Transversal Sustainability Research and Innovation) was officially launched at the German Environment Agency (UBA) in Dessau.
The total share of renewable energies in energy consumption (electricity, heat and transport) rose to 22 per cent in Germany in 2023. In 2022, this share was at 20.8 per cent. This positive development was the result of a growth of renewables in the electricity and heat sector while overall energy demand declined.
Issues related to the green economy have largely been considered separately from digitalisation in the past. A research project is now investigating the application areas and transformation potential of big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital platforms for a green economy.
At its first meeting on May 25, 2021, the newly formed Resources Commission at the German Environment Agency (UBA) was constituted for the appointment period 2021 to 2024. The Resource Commission consists of 18 experts from science, industry, administration, and civil society, who were personally appointed by the President of UBA.
RESCUE shows that until 2050 greenhouse gas emissions can be reduced by 95 to 97 percent (in comparison to 1990). Through the use of sustainable agriculture and forestry practices, even net-zero emissions can be reached. At the same time, primary raw materials consumption can be reduced by 56 to 70 percent. However, the transformation also results in additional demands for single raw materials.
