Innovation is critical to addressing the challenges of climate change.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has made it clear that rapid, far-reaching, and unprecedented changes in all aspects of society are needed to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels and avoid the worst impacts of climate change.
Innovation is critical to addressing the challenges of climate change. Development of new technologies and processes will play a crucial role to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enable adaption to the impacts of climate change, and increase the resilience of communities and ecosystems.

Innovations in renewable energy, energy storage, and energy efficiency can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the energy sector, industry in general and domestic energy consumption. Carbon capture technology enables removal of harmful carbon from the atmosphere. Innovations in transportation, agriculture, and forestry can contribute to emissions reductions and provide new and sustainable ways of producing food and protecting nature.

The social and economic challenges of climate change can be addressed through innovations that create new economic opportunities, generate jobs, and promote sustainable development. For instance, innovations in circular economy, sustainable agriculture, and green finance can help transform the economy and make it more resilient to climate risks.

However, innovation alone is not enough to solve the climate crisis. It needs to be combined with policies and regulations that incentivise emissions reductions and promote the adoption of innovative solutions. Moreover, innovation should be inclusive and prioritise the needs and perspectives of vulnerable communities and countries, which are most affected by climate change.

Innovation has a crucial role to play in addressing climate change, but it needs to be complemented by policies, regulations, and inclusive approaches that ensure a just and sustainable transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient future.