Social climate transformation

How can the decarbonization of the electricity, heat and transport sectors be socially equitable?

Berlin has set its sights on becoming climate neutral by 2050. This means that greenhouse gas-intensive sectors such as electricity, heat and transport must be decarbonized, i.e. free of carbon fuels. When it comes to the carbon footprint, the two most important action areas in the Berlin Energy and Climate Protection Programme 2030, which is the central instrument of Berlin’s climate policy, are energy and buildings. Together they are responsible for almost three quarters of carbon dioxide emissions in Berlin.

If Berlin is to achieve its goal of climate neutrality, it is essential that emissions are reduced in a socially responsible and just process that enables everyone in Berlin to participate – regardless of income or social status. The research network seeks to support Berlin in achieving this goal through scientific analysis and concept development.

The research network would like to contribute to identifying other climate change mitigation measures over and above the steps set out in the Berlin Energy and Climate Protection Programme 2030. The research partners hope that the scientific analyses will broaden the debates in Berlin and lead to interdisciplinary and close dialogue with practitioners from the senate and districts, tenants’ associations, the housing sector and civil society actors. Above all, the projects are intended to create acceptance, to stimulate discussion and identify policy recommendations for possible lines of conflict that stand in the way of implementing climate measures.