Are radical changes to lifestyles necessary for mitigating climate change?

Journal article

Many policy-makers and commentators propose that technological change alone will solve climate change. In this commentary, we argue that this techno-optimism is unrealistic, risky, and misses opportunities to improve well-being: radical behavioural change is essential for tackling climate change. While some behaviour change involves adopting green technologies, some are about changing how (much) we consume. Change is needed in our travel and dietary habits, material, energy and water use, in how we work and play. But not everyone needs to make radical lifestyle changes – the wealthiest need to change most. Achieving this will require policies that make low-carbon behaviours easier, cheaper, and more attractive. Tackling climate change requires a shift to a more equitable society and one in which happiness is prioritised over consumption.

Authors: Whitmarsh, L; Hampton, S

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: SAGE Publications
• Journal: Dialogues on Climate Change
• Volume: 1
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 23-29
• Publication date: 2024-11-04
• DOI: 10.1177/29768659241293215
• EISSN: 2976-8659
• Language: English
• Keywords: behaviour change; inequality; well-being; consumption