Why is it important? 

Despite the wealth of decarbonisation and net zero emission targets put forward by national and subnational actors, policy and actions so far still fall short of what is needed to ensure high level commitments translate into real world emission cuts. Understanding the potential role and routes to effectively deliver a range of decarbonisation solutions, be it new technologies, nature-based solutions or lifestyle changes, will be crucial to drive forward real-world change.   

What are we doing?  

We engage policymakers and other stakeholders to build understanding around the need and opportunities for mitigation action and to ensure they are up-to-date with the latest research evidence on decarbonisation options, in order to inform the development of effective and robust emission reduction plans and identify emerging research questions. Our engagement has spanned areas including building decarbonisation, the energy transition, emission reductions in heavy industry, and soil carbon management.  

Related content

Report: Climate change priorities for the next UK government

This report outlines five key priorities over the lifetime of the next UK government to deliver near-term emissions reductions and promote a more resilient economy and society.

Report: The truth about climate action in the UK

This collection of essays, authored by academics from across the UK, explores a range of topics that often feature in public and policy discussions on climate change.

Background briefing: Are we on track to meet climate goals?

Are the carbon reduction targets and policies from countries enough? This briefing presents the latest assessment of global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Background briefing: Phasing out 'unabated fossil fuels'

This background briefing explores the issues surrounding the term 'unabated fossil fuels' that featured prominently in the run-up to COP28 and underlines the importance of defining 'abatement'.

Report: Decarbonising buildings: insights from across Europe

This report considers four key challenges facing the UK in reducing carbon emissions from its building stock, and shares insights from across Europe that have the potential to help the UK to decarbonise and increase the energy efficiency of its buildings.

Background briefing: Delivering the fossil fuel transition

This background briefing looks at what the transition away from fossil fuels will entail for low and lower middle-income countries that are current or emerging fossil fuel producers.

Related events

Countdown to COP29: Raising Global Ambition on the Road to Baku

Following the commitments made at COP28, this event explores how governments can scale-up action and deliver on the Paris agreement.

Shifting gear: Accelerating the transition to sustainable travel

This event takes a closer look at the climate and health impacts of travel, explores possible solutions, and discusses what organisations can do to enable the transition to sustainable travel options with an expert panel..

Find out more

Contact:
Cait Hewitt
Policy and Engagement Officer
c.hewitt@imperial.ac.uk 

Further resources

Climate Change FAQs: Causes, Impacts and Action
Background briefings
Publications
Events