The ecological transition is one of the most debated topics of our time; it is the path to a more sustainable future, in which humanity commits to respecting the environment and preventing, thus, climate change, ensuring the health of the planet.
This article is intended to be an overview of what ecological transition is, what benefits it brings, and how we can implement it in our lives.
Table of contents
What is the ecological transition?
Ecological transition means the gradual shift from fossil fuels to renewable and sustainable energy sources. It is a change that involves various actors: citizens first and foremost, but also institutions, industry and agriculture, construction and transportation.
Of course, the ecological transition is not limited to the energy sphere, but also includes the adoption of new sustainable development models that respect nature and the resources it provides, promoting their efficient use and a circular economy.
Where does it originate from?
The concept of ecological transition originates from the realisation that the current climate crisis arises:
- from global warming;
- from pollution;
- from the loss of biodiversity;
- from social inequalities.
It threatens the survival and well-being of millions of people and other species, jeopardizing world stability and peace. Ecological transition, then, is but a systemic and integrated vision to solve the problem, taking into account the interconnections among the 4 dimensions of sustainability:
- environment;
- economy;
- society;
- culture.
It is also about rethinking the way we produce, consume, work, travel, live, educate and coexist, so as to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as much as possible, preserve natural resources, ensure solidarity between generations and peoples, and promote participation and democracy.
Many may think that this is a long-term goal, but in fact it is not. The ecological transition must be achieved now, with urgency and responsibility. It represents a collective challenge to which everyone is called to contribute according to his or her abilities, skills and interests.
Why is the ecological transition necessary?
Without the ecological transition, it will not be possible to adequately address the environmental crisis and secure a future for humanity. Following are the reasons why it is essential that the ecological transition be initiated now.
Global Warming
According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report, if we do not drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, the average global temperature could rise by more than 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, with catastrophic consequences for ecosystems, biodiversity, food security and human health.
Pollution
The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that, each year, about 9 million people die from exposure to harmful substances in air, water, soil and food. Environmental pollution also causes irreversible damage to the environment, such as ocean acidification, ozone hole, lake eutrophication and soil contamination.
Loss of biodiversity
The report of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) tells us that about 1 million plant and animal species are currently at risk of extinction due to human activities.
Biodiversity, in fact, is critical to the functioning of ecosystems and human well-being, as it provides very important services, such as:
- climate regulation;
- water purification;
- pest control;
- the pollination of crops;
- the production of food, fiber, medicines and materials.
Social inequalities
The United Nations (UN) has also commented on the issue, providing the following data:
- more than 2.2 billion people live in extreme poverty;
- 821 million are suffering from hunger;
- 785 million lack access to clean water;
- 2.4 billion do not have adequate sanitation facilities;
- 263 million do not attend school;
- 1.3 billion have no electricity.
Inequalities are also linked to factors such as gender discrimination, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation and disability. They undermine people’s human dignity, rights and opportunities, fueling violence, terrorism, corruption and crime.
What benefits does it bring?
Contrary to popular belief, the ecological transition would bring countless benefits, which we can divide into environmental and economic benefits.
Environmental benefits
Reduction of CO2 emissions.
Shifting to renewable energy sources would significantly reduce emissions of carbon dioxide (a major greenhouse gas responsible for the greenhouse effect) into the atmosphere.
Conservation and maintenance of natural resources
The adoption of sustainable production and consumption techniques, would help conserve natural resources longer, ensuring greater biodiversity.
Economic benefits
Creation of new jobs
The green transition can stimulate the economy and create new jobs, particularly in areas such as: renewable energy, energy efficiency and the circular economy.
Savings in utility bills
A higher degree of energy efficiency would reduce production costs and household consumption, with a significant impact on household and business bills.
The ecological transition in everyday life: what can I do for the planet?
The ecological transition is not something that only governments and large corporations have to deal with. Each of us can contribute and facilitate this transition within our daily lives. Here are some examples of how:
- reduce, reuse and recycle resources;
- benefit from renewable energy;
- uses environmentally friendly means of transportation, such as bicycles, public transportation or electric vehicles.
In conclusion, the ecological transition is a crucial process of change to ensure a sustainable future for us. It requires the commitment of everyone: governments, businesses and individual citizens. Although it presents a challenge, it also offers enormous opportunities to improve the health of the planet and our quality of life.
IPPO Engingering is committed to this challenge. If you would also like to be part of it and collaborate with us, please contact us by filling out the contact form below or by calling +390954683879.
We will help you identify the most sustainable business goals for your enterprise.
IPPO Engineering: #savetheplanet