A rapid global shift to clean electricity could trigger a "cascade" of progress towards repairing damage caused by the climate crisis, according to a new report. The analysis identifies environmental solutions most likely to bring about change, focusing on "positive tipping points" where sustainable technologies become increasingly widespread or popular.
Clean electricity is highlighted as the "highest-leverage" transition, as cheaper solar and wind power can accelerate change beyond the energy sector. This includes improving the economics of electric vehicles, heat pumps, and cleaner industrial processes, while also reducing air pollution.
Solar and wind power have already passed positive tipping points in many major markets, with growing deployment reducing costs and attracting investment. However, the transition to clean power faces impediments from slow planning and grid expansion in wealthier economies, and a lack of investment elsewhere.
The report, produced by the University of Exeter with the Earthshot prize, applies tipping point science to 51 priority areas across five environmental goals. These include protecting nature, cleaning the air, reviving oceans, eliminating waste, and tackling the climate crisis.
Other high-impact interventions identified include transforming global commodity supply chains and cutting methane emissions. Methane abatement is described as one of the quickest ways to alter the course of global heating.