ALBERT

Description: Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a fundamental component of all life on Earth. Due to the considerable increase in emissions, particularly industrial emissions, CO2has, however, become a waste product and greenhouse gas damaging to the climate and, consequently, a threat to both humanity and nature. For almost 50years, chemical research has been pursuing the idea of making the CO2 molecule useful as a raw material(Aresta and Dibenedetto 2010). Within the context of the oil crises of the 1970s, and contingent on the currentneed for climate protection, there has been a rise in global interest in the research and development oftechnologies which could make CO2 useful as a source of carbon. Several regions in Europe, but also in North America and Asia have started sponsorship programmes to support the development of such technologies (BMBF 2014, Climate-KIC 2014, U.S. Department of Energy [DOE] n.d.).The goal of these efforts is to integrate this climatedamaging gas in extremely diverse industrial productionprocesses as a raw material. The use of CO2 would not only allow for the production of useful raw materials and products, such technologies could alsoemulate a natural carbon cycle (Peters et al. 2011). At the same time, they have the potential to reduce the consumption of other fossil resources and, in so doing, they might not only contribute to the extension of the resource base, but also reduce missionswhilst providing protection for natural resources (von der Assen et al. 2013). Technological breakthroughs and advancements are currently observedin carbon capture technologies in the catalysis and transformation of CO2 (Aresta 2010, Mikkelsen et al. 2010, Peters et al. 2011, Styring et al. 2011, Wilcox 2012, Smit et al. 2014, Klankermayer and Leitner 2015), and the first innovative CO2-based productsare already coming onto the markets.

Description: This IASS study takes an in-depth look at Covid-19's impacts on the global energy sector, and then zooms in to the country level to see individual country effects and responses. The case studies are compiled by energy researchers in Argentina, China, Germany, India, Israel, and the United States.

Description: People living or working in the Arctic are faced with uncertainty regarding future social, political, economic, and environmental change. This uncertainty is due not least to the ongoing transformations caused by climate change. This paper presents results from a project entitled “Yamal 2040: Scenarios for the Russian Arctic”, which employed ‘Strategic Foresight’, a specific co-design and engagement methodology, to support stakeholders of one particular region in the Arctic, the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Okrug (Yamal region) in Western Siberia, Russia. It was the project’s objective to respond to this situation of general uncertainty, to develop forward-looking scenarios to better understand the risks and opportunities associated with future transformations in the Arctic. The findings presented here may be of interest for stakeholders in other parts of the Arctic and Russia that depend on the exploitation of fossil fuels and/or are facing complex and uncertain situations.

Description: The challenges facing European regions undergoing structural transformations as they transition towards sustainable development pathways have attracted increasing interest in recent years. Straddling the border between Germany and Poland, Lusatia is experiencing considerable transformation pressure. Various domestic and European funding programmes, for example under the umbrella of the European Green Deal, are intended to cushion the impacts of the phase-out or reduction of coal-fired power generation. The recently adopted EU Just Transition Mechanism aims to support sustainable structural transformations and the broader goal of achieving climate neutrality by mitigating impacts on the workforce and contributing to the diversification of economies in the most affected areas. Funds made available through this mechanism should be deployed in consultation with regional stakeholders in Lusatia to complement national support measures. Further funding programmes are available targeting various policy areas and could be harnessed to strengthen integration throughout the region. Funding programmes that are centrally managed by the European Commission (i.e. not under shared management with national governments) are of particular interest in this context. Closer political and economic cooperation, coupled with a deeper exchange of experience, can accelerate regional integration and guide processes of structural transformation towards sustainable outcomes. However, there are some practical hurdles to overcome in border regions. The primary objectives in using available EU funding are to mitigate the social impacts of processes of structural transformation and to deliver a just transition at all levels. Measures funded through these programmes should be aligned with the sustainable development goals (SDGs) and contribute to the goal of achieving climate neutrality.

Description: Ce rapport a été préparé dans le cadre du projet STRONG High Seas, à partir d’une série d’enquêtes menées auprès des parties prenantes et de l’expérience tirée de divers ateliers organisés dans la région de l’Atlantique du Sud-Est, ainsi que d’études documentaires et d’avis d’experts. Le rapport a été revu par plusieurs experts dans le but de valider les résultats et de garantir la rigueur du contenu. Ce document s’inscrit dans une série de rapports couvrant les questions de gouvernance des océans en mettant l’accent sur les ZAJN du Pacifique du Sud-Est et de l’Atlantique du SudEst et s’appuie sur les rapports précédents publiés par le projet STRONG High Seas. Les autres rapports du projet portent sur le cadre juridique et institutionnel applicable aux ZAJN, l’état écologique et l’importance socio-économique des ZAJN dans les régions du projet, les options de gestion et les mesures de conservation de la biodiversité marine dans les ZAJN, et les considérations relatives à la gestion intégrée des océans. Ces rapports sont disponibles sur le site web du projet STRONG High Seas.

Description: This report – Study on the socio-economic importance of areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ) in the Southeast Atlantic region – aims to analyse the socio-economic importance of the ABNJ adjacent to the countries within the Abidjan Convention Area in West, Central and Southern Africa. It characterizes the socio-economic interests in ABNJ, underpinned by the ecosystem services concept, and the actual and potential social and economic outcomes (costs and benefits) associated with the conservation and use (exploitation) of marine resources, both in qualitative, and to the extent possible in quantitative terms. In this study, the term “socio-economics” is taken in a broad context to include the social aspects related to human well-being, livelihoods, impacts on communities, equity, socio-political systems, as well as economic ones. The analysis is based on an extensive literature review of scientific publications, articles, analysis of available data, stakeholder knowledge and experience, as well as expert opinion gathered through targeted interviews. It provides a narrative and forward-looking assessment of the key activities. The information presented is intend-ed to support decision-makers, including government officials, the private sector and other stakeholders to make informed decisions about ABNJ and weigh environmental, social and eco-nomic objectives, in the context of a new internationally binding treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity beyond national jurisdiction, the BBNJ agreement. This report is part of a series of reports covering issues of ocean governance with a focus on the Southeast Atlantic (and Southeast Pacific) published under the STRONG High Seas project – Strengthening Regional Ocean Governance for the High Seas (June 2017 – May 2022).

Description: Ce rapport - Étude sur l‘importance socio-économique des zones situées au-delà de la juridiction nationale (ZAJN) dans la région de l‘Atlantique Sud-Est - vise à analyser l‘importance socio-économique des ZAJN adjacentes aux pays de la region de la Convention d‘Abidjan en Afrique occidentale, centrale et australe. Elle caractérise les intérêts socio-économiques dans les ZAJN, étayés par le concept de services écosystémiques, et les résultats sociaux et économiques réels et potentiels (coûts et bénéfices) associés à la conservation et à l‘utilisation (exploitation) des ressources marines, à la fois en termes qualitatifs et, dans la mesure du possible, en termes quantitatifs. Dans cette étude, le terme „socio-économique“ est pris dans un contexte large pour inclure les aspects sociaux liés au bien-être humain, aux moyens de subsistance, aux impacts sur les communautés, à l‘équité, aux systèmes socio-politiques, ainsi que les aspects économiques. L‘analyse se fonde sur une étude approfondie de publications et d‘articles scientifiques, sur l‘analyse des données disponibles, sur les connaissances et l‘expérience des parties prenantes, ainsi que sur l‘opinion d‘experts recueillie lors d‘entretiens ciblés. Elle fournit une évaluation narrative et prospective des activités clés. Les informations présentées ont pour but d‘aider les décideurs, y compris les responsables gouvernementaux, le secteur privé et d‘autres parties prenantes, à prendre des décisions éclairées sur les ZAJN et à peser les objectifs environnementaux, sociaux et économiques, dans le contexte d‘un nouveau traité international contraignant pour la conservation et l‘utilisation durable de la biodiversité marine audelà de la juridiction nationale, l‘accord BZAJN. Ce rapport fait partie d‘une série de rapports couvrant les questions de gouvernance des océans avec un accent sur l‘Atlantique du Sud-Est (et le Pacifique du Sud-Est) publiés dans le cadre du projet STRONG High Seas - Strengthening Regional Ocean Governance for the High Seas (juin 2017 - mai 2022).

Description: While the positive impacts of renewable energy development, the implementation and use of renewable energy for people and the planet are widely recognised, the direct contribution of local renewable energy projects to local community well-being has received limited attention. And while the Paris Climate Agreement and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, with its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), have been rightfully celebrated as global milestones towards securing livelihoods and opportunities now and in the future, they lack societal ownership and traction among communities, who are decisive in supporting and driving the necessary sustainability transformation. However, aside from energy access, the opportunities for local energy projects to provide broader positive effects (such as community revenues) through co-investments are largely regarded as secondary co-benefits, if not entirely ignored by development policies and practices. Tapping into these opportunities for effective policies and practices in climate action and international development calls for a different approach to sustainable energy development (energy transitions in some countries): a social performance approach to energy development and investment, which we outline in this paper. In the context of this paper, the social performance of energy sector investments refers to direct and positive social impacts on the well-being of individuals and communities during the development and implementation of energy projects and the usage of locally generated energy, in both monetary and non-monetary ways. In essence, the social performance approach in energy-sector investments and energy-project development puts the needs and well-being of people – both current and future generations – at the centre of energy development and related investments and activities. The social performance approach that we propose builds on the conceptual foundations of the capability approach, the co-benefits approach, the Need–Opportunity–Ability (NOA) model, and important groundwork on community development in South Africa’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP). An important aspect of the social performance approach is its focus on the direct contribution of these investments in fostering the well-being of individuals in a manner that reflects their aspirations for good quality of life. This approach can facilitate regular evaluation of progress and ensures accountability and adjustment of implementation strategies so that future investments, design, and implementation strategies perform both for people and the planet. Social performance can be used to compare how different energy options (e.g., a coal-mining site, a renewable wind park, or decentralised energy services such as solar mini-grids) may effectively and comprehensibly improve the lives of people and local communities. The social performance approach helps to identify concrete intervention points or enablers, to ensure and increase the positive contributions of energy-sector investments to the well-being of individuals and communities, either in monetary ways such as local economic value creation and employment, or in non-monetary ways such as community cohesion and social inclusion. In this paper we suggest that, consequently, policy interventions and investments aimed at decarbonising energy systems should not simply be monitored in view of how they perform for communities and people on the ground; rather, these interventions and investments should be intentionally designed to maximise their social performance for individuals and communities.

Description: This report was prepared as part of the STRONG High Seas project, based on a series of stakeholder surveys and experience gathered through various workshops held in the Southeast Pacific region, as well as on literature surveys and expert opinion. The report was reviewed by experts to validate findings and ensure robust content. This report is part of a series of reports covering issues of ocean governance with a focus on the ABNJ of the Southeast Pacific and the Southeast Atlantic regions and builds on previous reports published by the STRONG High Seas project. Further project reports cover the legal and institutional framework applicable to ABNJ, the ecological state and the socioeconomic importance of ABNJ in the project regions, options for management and conservation measures for conservation of marine biodiversity in ABNJ, and considerations for integrated ocean management. These reports are available through the STRONG High Seas project website. Following this introductory chapter, Chapter 2 provides relevant context with regards to ocean governance in areas beyond national jurisdiction, the ongoing negotiations towards a new agreement under UNCLOS and related capacity development needs and approaches. Chapter 3 presents a short summary of the surveys undertaken by the STRONG High Seas project with regards to capacity needs in the Southeast Pacific region and Chapter 4 is a summary of the corresponding capacity development efforts undertaken as part of the STRONG High Seas project. Chapter 5 provides reflections and recommendations for future capacity development activities beyond the scope of the project and highlights lessons learned through the five years of this project. Additional background information is provided in the Annexes.

Description: This report is intended to provide a review of the relevant governance frameworks currently in place for the management of high seas biodiversity in these regions. The report uses the issues under discussion in the ongoing negotiations for a new legally binding BBNJ agreement under the United Nations, as well as selected Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14 targets, as a lens through which to assess progress towards conservation and sustainable use.

Description: Local cooperation between civil society and the public sector is becoming increasingly important – in local transformation projects, in science, and occasionally in politics and administration. Commons-Public Partnerships (CPPs) provide a way to frame, promote and extend this collaboration. In civil society, CPPs are typically defined by the practice of commoning, where local communities exercise self-regulation based on the principles of community welfare and the common good. This discussion paper examines the theory and practice of commoning and other forms of cooperation. While focusing on the challenges of social-ecological transformation, the paper also identifies areas where CPPs can be implemented and highlights fields of tension exposed by the concept.

Description: Measures to support conservation efforts must put the protection of biodiversity and/or ecological integrity as the primary objective and consider cumulative pressures on the marine environment. This also means including ecological connectivity (e.g., migratory routes of marine species, transboundary impacts of human activities), and climate change impacts in their design and implementation. Moreover, the complexity and dynamic nature of the ocean, including in areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ), requires that conservation efforts acknowledge uncertainty, include options to address it or adapt swiftly to new scientific information, and consider the three-dimensional space of the ocean. This also requires that the best available interdisciplinary scientific and indigenous knowledge provide the basis for the design and implementation of such measures. It will be essential that measures to support conservation efforts apply mechanisms for cross-sectoral consultation, cooperation, and collaboration, as well as consider appropriate spatial and temporal scales for implementation. They must reflect broad societal goals and consider uneven distribution of socio-economic outcomes resulting from exploitative activities in ABNJ. Governance and management actions must recognise coupled and diverse social-ecological systems, and the interconnection between ocean health and human wellbeing, including diverse stakeholder considerations in the design and implementation of the measure or approach. It is essential that the design and implementation of measures to support conservation efforts include appropriate means to ensure the regular monitoring, control, and surveillance of human activities as well as the compliance and enforcement of the laws and regulations in place. States are familiar with legal instruments, such as those under the United Nation Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), United Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), International Maritime Organisation (IMO) conventions, International Seabed Authority (ISA), and management measures adopted by the Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs). They have developed governance structures and capacity to support their implementation. The recommendation in this context would be for States to support the consolidation and further development of measures to support conservation efforts with the aim to ensure that they integrate their approach with considerations for ecological connectivity, biodiversity protection, ecosystem-based integrated ocean management and climate change implications for the conservation and management of biodiversity in ABNJ. To be effective, any measures to support conservation efforts proposed for ABNJ in the Southeast Atlantic region must consider the socio-economic and political realities of the countries whose Exclusive Economic Zones border these areas. In this sense, it is important to note the important role that the fishing sector has historically played and continues to play for most economies of this region. The proposed Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Instrument in negotiation at the United Nations, will be fundamental for establishing the legal basis for developing and implementing cross-sectoral measures to support conservation efforts in ABNJ. The way in which the proposed BBNJ Instrument is integrated and how the link to existing conservation and sustainable use measures established under existing management organisations is made will determine the effectiveness of the possible measures to support current and future conservation efforts. In this regard, it is particularly important for the Southeast Atlantic region how existing RFMOs will be able to interact with the proposed BBNJ Instrument. Considering the capacity (technological, experience, financial, logistical) challenges of many of the countries in the Southeast Atlantic, it is important that measures to support conservation efforts under existing international treaties or legal mechanisms be integrated, practical, and cost-effective. The different legal status of the water column and the deep seabed beyond national jurisdiction and the different legal provisions in place represent a challenge for the development of a coherent, comprehensive, and integrated approach to the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity in ABNJ. Lack of uniformity in compliance among flag States and the lack of monitoring and enforcement mechanisms in ABNJ jeopardise the achievement of an integrated approach for conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in these vast areas of ocean. The wide array of existing instruments can be used to improve conservation of biodiversity in ABNJ through improved monitoring and enforced compliance. This remains the responsibility of individual flag States, but at present there is limited reporting of vessels and minimum follow up action by flag or port States.

Description: This Discussion Paper discusses the implications of the European Green Deal and the Circular Economy Action Plan for plastic and packaging waste. According to a recent report, each European Union (EU) inhabitant generated 172.6 kg of packaging waste in the year 2017, 19% of which was made of plastic. Amid growing concerns about the environmental effects of such consumption habits, the regulation of packaging waste and plastic has moved to higher up the legislative agenda of the EU in recent years.

Description: This summary for decision makers is based on the report ‘Ecological Baselines of the Southeast Atlantic and Southeast Pacific – Status of Marine Biodiversity and Anthropogenic Pressures in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction’ and provides consolidated information on key biological and ecological features of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (ABNJ) in the Southeast Atlantic as well as highlights key pressures placed upon it by human activities. ABNJ include the water column (the high seas) and the seabed (the Area) outside of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of coastal States and cover about half of the Earth’s surface. This summary is intended to inform relevant actors and stakeholders to support their understanding of the function and importance of marine biological diversity in ABNJ and the need to for appropriate conservation and management measures. The report was prepared as part of the Strengthening Regional Ocean Governance for the High Seas (‘STRONG High Seas’) project – funded by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) through the International Climate Initiative (IKI).

Description: This report presents the results of the third and the last workshop in the series “Yamal 2040” organised within Blue-Action work package WP5 “Delivering and valuing climate and information services”. The Blue-Action team at the Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies (IASS) in cooperation with the Primakov National Institute of World Economy and International Relations of the Russian Academy of Science (IMEMO) and Foresight Intelligence, and with inputs provided by the National Oceanographic Center (UKRI-NOC) and the M. Obukhov Institute of Atmospheric Physics Russian Academy of Sciences (IAP-RAS) in the Blue-Action work package WP2 “Lower latitude drivers of Arctic changes” developed forward-looking scenarios to better understand the risks and opportunities associated with multiple developments in the Arctic and help stakeholders to adapt to them. This case study looks at a specific region, the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Okrug in Arctic Russia (YNAO or Yamal region), a region with substantial ongoing and planned petroleum and shipping activities. Together with stakeholder groups, the team has co-developed a suite of scenarios to describe possible futures for this region in 2040 by incorporating cutting edge climate predictions with environmental, social and cultural concerns, economic opportunities, and political and legal developments. The scenarios are the outcome of a truly co-design and co-development process involving partners, stakeholders and using various foresight methods tailored to the project’s needs. These methods allow to constructively deal with cognitive biases, thus enabling participants to think out of the box when planning the future. This approach is very helpful in tackling complex issues linked to numerous interacting uncertainties.

Description: This report explores how the co-benefits of renewable energy and energy efficiency saving measures can play an active role in connecting the Mexican energy transition with key processes and commitments for development that have been determined by the country itself. These include the National Development Plan (NDP) for 2019-2024 as well as climate goals or Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC), to which Mexico is committed under the Paris Agreement. This study, published in conjunction with the project Enhancing the Coherence of Climate and Energy Policies in Mexico (CONECC), offers quantitative evidence of the co-benefits of two routes (scenarios) for energy transition as related to the Energy Transition Law (LTE). These vary in scope however, revealing how the co-benefits of renewable energy and energy efficiency can help to play an active role in achieving national development goals.

Description: How can science and business help build sustainable societies? This question took centre-stage at the second Global Sustainability Strategy Forum (GSSF), held on 22 - 24 March 2020. The event did not take place in Bangkok as previously planned due to the coronavirus pandemic. Instead, 25 leading experts from business and sustainability science came together online to discuss how the two sectors could work together more effectively.

Description: Through the present report, we would like to share with you theinspiring outcomes of our joint experience at the Global Soil Week2017, and offer you an opportunity to reflect on the high potential ofpreparatory events to the HLPF, and of using its thematic reviews asmeans to achieve an integrated implementation of the SDGs.

Description: This article reflects the partial results of my ongoing research as part of the International Climate Fellowship Program of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, which I am carrying out at the Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies – IASS Potsdam, Germany.

Description: This document includes the main policy outcomes of the Global Soil Week 2017 by introducing 1) the principles and methods utilized, 2) the five key policy messages discussed in plenary with the participants and 3) considerations from the discussions at the Global Soil Week supporting the five key policy messages. We respectfully submit the messages below, for consideration by the High Level Political Forum (HLPF), and reinforce our commitment to contribute to strengthening the work and role of the HLPF. We also stand ready to work together with Member States aiming to strengthen the emphasis on soil- and land-related issues in their National Voluntary Reviews and also with platforms aiming to conduct similar reviews.

Description: This IASS study considers the potential of the G20 to shape a global transition to sustainable energy, urgentlyneeded in order to achieve the UN’s climate and sustainability goals. The G20, a group of major emerging andindustrialised economies, is a high-level political forum that brings together a heterogeneous set of members.The Group carries great weight in international energy governance, and accounts for 80 percent of the world’s totalprimary energy consumption and 82 percent of global energy-related CO2 emissions. Thus, decisions and actions ofthe G20 and its members have the capacity to significantly impact global energy systems.The study analyses the energy sector developments of 14 G20 members (Argentina, Brazil, China, European Union,France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey and the United States).Short case studies trace major trends and policy initiatives in the countries and identify both potential conflictsof interest and existing common ground within the G20. Each study offers an assessment of potential impulsesoriginating from the respective case, and how these might help foster international cooperation for advancing aglobal energy transition.

Description: Table of Contents1. Introduction and Main Insights from the Study - Sybille Roehrkasten, Sonja Thielges and Rainer Quitzow http://publications.iass-potsdam.de/pubman/item/escidoc:19069032. The G20 and its Role in Global Energy Governance - Sybille Roehrkasten and Kirsten Westphal http://publications.iass-potsdam.de/pubman/item/escidoc:19069073. Argentina: From an Energy Stalemate Towards Shale Gas Expansion and Creating a Renewables Market - Moïra Jimeno http://publications.iass-potsdam.de/pubman/item/escidoc:19069104. Brazil: Long Tradition of Renewables-Based Energy Supply and Ethanol Diplomacy - Sybille Roehrkasten http://publications.iass-potsdam.de/pubman/item/escidoc:19069135. China: Emerging Global Power in Clean Energy? - Rainer Quitzow http://publications.iass-potsdam.de/pubman/item/escidoc:19088896. The EU: In the Midst of Crisis – Downgraded SustainableEnergy Ambitions - Kirsten Westphal http://publications.iass-potsdam.de/pubman/item/escidoc:19108887. France: Reducing Nuclear Dominance and Promoting a Low-Carbon Energy System - Carole Mathieu http://publications.iass-potsdam.de/pubman/item/escidoc:19108918. Germany: Promoting an Energiewende Domestically and Globally - Sybille Roehrkasten and Karoline Steinbacher http://publications.iass-potsdam.de/pubman/item/escidoc:19108959. India: Meeting Energy Needs for Development While Addressing Climate Change - Madhura Joshi and Radhika Khosla http://publications.iass-potsdam.de/pubman/item/escidoc:191089710. Indonesia: A Long Way to Low-Carbon Development - Jens Marquardt http://publications.iass-potsdam.de/pubman/item/escidoc:191090011. Japan: Dominated by Fukushima and Tackling Hard Problemsin Decarbonisation - Llewelyn Hughes http://publications.iass-potsdam.de/pubman/item/escidoc:191090312. Russia: A Gas Superpower Striving for Nuclear Expansion and Starting to Support Renewables - Alexander Gusev http://publications.iass-potsdam.de/pubman/item/escidoc:191090713. Saudi Arabia: Oil as a Burden in the Struggle for Energy Diversification - Sebastian Sons http://publications.iass-potsdam.de/pubman/item/escidoc:191091014. South Africa: Carbon-Intensive Economy and a Regional Renewable Energy Frontrunner - Agathe Maupin http://publications.iass-potsdam.de/pubman/item/escidoc:191091315. Turkey: Great Potential, Missing Will - Jörn Richert http://publications.iass-potsdam.de/pubman/item/escidoc:191091616. The United States: Domestic Transitions and International Leadership Towards Low-Carbon Energy - Karoline Steinbacher http://publications.iass-potsdam.de/pubman/item/escidoc:1910919

Description: In April 2021, under the “IMPACT R” project, IASS Potsdam and HEDERA Sustainable Solutions GmbH in Berlin, together with University of Rwanda and Sustainable Villages Foundation (SVF), conducted a household survey in two villages in Rwanda. SVF has started an integrated village development pilot project in those two villages and wanted to better understand the local populations’ needs and establish a baseline for impact measurement, in order to track the project’s progress over time. In parallel, focus group discussions and key stakeholder interviews were carried out. The main results are as follows: Over 80 % of households get their main income from agriculture, largely on small plots. Two-thirds of the households have USD 45 or less to spend on a 5-person family, on average. There is no public electricity grid. Half of the households have access to very basic electricity through solar systems; the other half has none at all. Over 90 % of households use wood and open fire pits or handmade clay stoves for cooking, mostly indoors, causing deforestation and health problems because of the smoke. There is no public or private drinking water supply. Villagers collect rainwater and/or surface water, which has to be carried over several kilometers by adults and children. The water is dirty and not treated before drinking in one-third of households, which triggers diseases. Only 26 % of households are classified as food-secure, whereas 15.5 % are above the severe food insecurity threshold. A significant percentage of the inhabitants does not eat a balanced diet due to lack of resources. The local community especially emphasized the need for: Priority 1: Safe drinking water Priority 2: Electricity Priority 3: Clean cooking devices Another severe challenge is poverty in general. There is a shortage of food in terms of quantity and quality for a significant portion of the population. This is caused by households’ limited financial capacity and insufficient agricultural yield due to the absence of water for irrigation and inefficient agricultural techniques. Furthermore, teacher qualification in English and information technology (IT) is not satisfactory, and the primary school has no electricity in most of the classrooms and no computers. Professional training options are only offered far away from the villages and are very costly. New business development is hindered by the lack of electricity. The target communities seek for support to address all the above challenges and are willing to contribute their part.

Description: Following more than a decade of informal deliberations, States at the United Nations (UN)are currently negotiating an “international legally binding instrument for the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction” (“BBNJ Agreement”). The negotiations aim to strengthen the international legal framework for the protection and management of the global ocean by addressing gaps in the current framework and building on existing obligations under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) to cooperate to protect and preserve the marine environment and conserve marine living resources. This policy brief explores how integrated ecosystem-based management (EBM) in marine areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ) can be advanced at the regional level and how the BBNJ Agreement can build on experiences in other legally binding agreements to strengthen regional cooperation, coordination and coherence. To this end, five building blocks are identified: 1. A robust global body such as a Conference of Parties capable of taking decisions and adopting recommendations; 2. A suite of regional mechanisms for integrated policy development and coordination; 3. Effective science-policy advisory mechanisms; 4. Overarching environmental obligations and principles; and 5. Operational principles to ensure good governance. A review of the current President’s draft text of the BBNJ Agreement highlights where the text could be strengthened to advance EBM. In particular, the BBNJ Agreement could draw inspiration from a range of existing instruments and craft specific obligations to: cooperate to promote in-situ conservation of ecosystems and natural habitats; mainstream biodiversity into all decision-making bodies and processes; and strengthen regional cooperation by supporting existing institutions and by building cross-sectoral platforms for cooperation.

Description: The German energy transition (Energiewende) is the subject of intensive research, and thankfully so. We now have reliable estimates relating to the required deployment of technology, the costs for end consumers and society, and the expected consequences for health and the environment. It has been firmly established just how much CO2 we have already saved with the energy transition, and what is required in order to reduce CO2 emissions even further. There is also a range of scientific studies on the impact of the expansion of renewable energies on nature conservation and species protection. However, one question has received little academic attention to date: How does the energy transition affect society? It is astonishing that we know so little about this. After all, experts have long been agreed on the fact that sustainability does not just have an economic and ecological dimension, but also a social one. It is essential that we consider the social impact to the same extent as the economic or ecological effects. So it is high time to give the question of social sustainability a solid empirical base. The Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies (IASS), together with the RWI – Leibniz Institute for Economic Research, conducted a panel survey of more than 7,500 households. Now, with the Social Sustainability Barometer for the German Energiewende 2017, we present the results for the first time.

Description: The overall aim of WP2 is to understand both the actual and possible application of the precautionary principle in eight different cases, and explain potential commonalities and differences in the application of the precautionary principle in the cases. This analysis should reflect the particular context of the case and reveal the arguments that have been used for invoking the precautionary principle and/or adopting precautionary measures (even without mentioning the precautionary principle). The multiple case study component of the RECIPES project is one of the key analytical phases of the project. Within the scope of the entire RECIPES project, WP2 builds on aspects of WP1, in particular the final WP1 report taking stock of the precautionary principle since 2000. The outputs of WP2 will feed directly into WP3, with the aim of the development of new tools and approaches to the PP in a co-creation approach. This document is intended for the individual case study analysis, and does not directly inform the cross-case comparison analysis which will take place in task 2.4.

Description: This report provides guidance to decision makers in all types of public and private organizations involved in the planning and development of CCU. It is prepared within the scope of the CO2nsistent project funded by the Global CO2 Initiative and EIT Climate-KIC, and is based on the published TEA and LCA Guidelines v.1. This report provides user-centered guidance on how to commission and understand TEA and LCA studies for CCU, and how to determine whether existing studies are eligible to be used in a decision making process. Another primary goal of this report is to ensure that disciplinary expertise is effectively taken up by decision makers and all potential audiences. The remainder of this document is structured in two parts. Part A introduces the reader to the concept of TEA and LCA studies: What types of input can such assessments provide for decision making? What are the limitations of their explanatory power? This part focuses on the goal and scope definition for such studies, and on other aspects that are particularly relevant for decision making. The document presents how the decision maker (or commissioner) and the assessment practitioner can jointly set the various assessment phases. These terms are explained in the boxes below. The approach and main components of TEA and LCA studies are described, with the specific goal of making the most sensitive disciplinary concepts clear and comprehensible to all audiences. Part B consists of practical tools to guide actors interested in commissioning TEA and LCA studies, and to support decision makers when evaluating and assessing TEA and LCA studies submitted by third parties. A series of consecutive steps, displayed as decision trees, provide support for checking the completeness of key aspects and requirements of TEA and LCA studies.

Description: The IASS – and the research project Co-creation and Contemporary Policy Advice, in particular – aim to support policymakers in their efforts to address complex societal challenges within the context of a broad transformation towards sustainability. These challenges are interwoven with other issues and embedded within dynamic contexts that are characterized by a high degree of uncertainty, making it difficult to develop a unified approach to their resolution. In response to this, this IASS Discussion Paper presents a model for the development of co-creative policy advice that is intended to support actors from policymaking and public administration in addressing such complex challenges. The primary goal of the process outlined here is the development, in cooperation with relevant stakeholders, of an in-depth understanding of a specific challenge – before appropriate strategies and measures for its resolution are put in place. The insights gained in this scoping process shape the development of tailored solution generation processes and the allocation of public procurement contracts for the implementation of societal transformation processes. In this approach, the policy advice process begins well before potential solutions are developed and presented to policymakers and administrative bodies. Rather, this model responds to the need to develop an integrated understanding of societal challenges in close cooperation with the people and institutions affected on the ground before public procurement processes for their resolution are launched.

Description: Post-pandemic recovery plans will play an important role in strengthening healthcare systems and rebuilding economies. These stimulus packages and policy responses present a unique opportunity to steer the global economy towards sustainable growth, increase resilience and bolster efforts to tackle the challenge of climate change. This IASS Discussion Paper shows how policymakers could align post-pandemic recovery planning with existing climate goals to unlock co-benefits for sustainable development and climate change mitigation and adaptation.

Description: The International Seabed Authority (ISA) is presently developing regulations (the “Mining Code”) to govern the exploration and exploitation of mineral resources of the international seabed (or “Area”). Whilst the financial mechanism is a critical component of this Mining Code, its development has been delegated to the Open-Ended Ad Hoc Working Group of the Council. These informal discussions have prioritized a model that gives preference to enabling mining over delivering fair compensation for the loss of resources. This policy brief argues that a fundamentally different and comprehensive approach is required and outlines some of its key components.

Description: Deep-seabed mining in the Area is regulated by the International Seabed Authority (ISA) which is mandated to act on behalf of humankind as a whole. Consistent with international environmental law and human rights norms, in its decision making the ISA is expected to engage with its broad constituency. Using ten assessment criteria, this paper analyses the extent to which the ISA has facilitated public participation to date. This paper finds that, while the ISA has increased outreach activities, significant scope for improvement remains. Several ways to improve public participation at the ISA are identified, including (1) proactive consultation with a wider reach, including stakeholders that are hitherto not engaged; (2) mechanisms to ensure stakeholder consultations and submissions are given due consideration, and that the rationale for decisions are publicly communicated; and (3) enhanced public engagement in the implementation of decisions.

Description: On October 1st, 2019, the CO2nsistent Project (co-financed by the Global CO2 Initiative and EIT Climate-KIC) and the PHOENIX Initiative jointly organized a workshop in Brussels on the topic of CO2 utilization technology and assessment methodologies such as Techno-Economic and Life Cycle assessment (TEA and LCA). The event brought together LCA and TEA practitioners, national and European policy agencies, and the corporate field. To stimulate and enhance participation, diverse session formats were offered: thematic presentations by experts, a panel discussion, as well as a break-out session modeled on the “world café” method. The foci of the day were two-fold: Learning how to support European policymakers when assessing the environmental and economic aspects of CO2 utilization, and initiating an exchange with parallel European initiatives conducting research on CCU assessment methodologies and their environmental and economic perspectives. The event shed light on some unresolved issues raised by industrial actors with regard to the upcom-ing European policy and funding mechanisms (such as ETS Phase IV and Innovation Fund), while national and European decision-makers described the difficulties they face when evaluating CO2 utilization. The current ETS rules are inadequate to properly quantify the climate benefits of indus-trial CCU application, while the Renewable Energy Directive (REDII) lacks requirements for broad-er environmental and social assessments. Workshop participants broadly agreed that the harmoniza-tion of LCA approaches could help to quantify the extent to which CCU can contribute to achieving the GHG emission targets described in the REDII, should address all environmental aspects, and can provide sound guidelines for implementing CCU in the ETS. At the same time, solution-oriented collaborations with LCA and TEA experts (e.g. the CO2nsistent group and others) were considered and examined, also with regard to new instruments and strategies to reduce complexity for policy-makers. The event also aimed at expanding the networks between the organizers and relevant actors in the field, with a particular focus on national and European policymakers. Members of CO2nsistent, LCA4CCU and the Joint Research Centre – all of whom are engaged in CCU assessment methodol-ogies – scrutinized alignments of proposed solutions and elaborated on specific divergences such as low-TRL technology. The likelihood that this effort could ultimately lead to standards for LCA and TEA for CCU was extensively debated with the direct support of the French (AFNOR) and German (DIN) associations for standardization.

Description: The German government has resolved to phase out coal-fired power plants at the latest by 2038. The coal exit will inevitably mean the end of lignite mining in Lusatia, a central economic sector that has played a major role in shaping the region’s identity. However, against the backdrop of the worsening climate crisis, lignite is a hotly contested political issue. Although there are many people in Lusatia who reject the coal exit by 2038, lignite is not uncontroversial here either. (see Bischoff et. al. 2021). At the same time, in recent years the right-wing populist and to some extent radical right-wing party Alternative for Germany (AfD) has gained mass appeal among some of the Lusatian population. With their right-wing populist orientation and simplistic friend-foe argumentation, the AfD is driving social polarisation. The party rails against the coal exit, sheds doubt on man-made climate change and, more recently, has sought proximity to pandemic deniers. But why exactly is right-wing populism so popular in Lusatia? Why does this success pose a threat to structural change in the region? And how might we remove the breeding ground for right-wing populism and counteract social polarisation? This Discussion Paper addresses these questions and develops three approaches for countering social polarisation so that the coming structural change in Lusatia can be successful. Acknowledge diversity Lusatia is often presented as a homogeneous area with a homogeneous population. This in no way reflects the social reality on the ground. The population in Upper and Lower Lusatia is very heterogeneous in terms of their origins, political views, and religious beliefs. This diversity must be acknowledged and viewed as a resource for the region. Establish a culture of immigration Since 2000 alone, the population in Lusatia has declined by about 20 per cent, from 1.4 million to 1.1 million, and the average age has increased significantly (WRL 2019, 27). For the future, it is imperative to establish a culture of immigration to make the region attractive both for people who left as young adults and for people from other parts of Germany and abroad. Take fears about the future seriously, but do not exacerbate them The massive economic and social changes of the 1990s have stirred fear of change in the region. For this reason, it is important to establish spaces where dialogue can take place on what the future might look like without strengthening vague fears stemming from past experiences.

Description: The high volume of plastic packaging currently consumed in Germany poses a complex socio-ecological risk. As part of the BMBF-funded ENSURE research consortium, environmental psychologists at the Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies (IASS) in Potsdam have studied various policy options to promote a reduction in individual consumption of plastic food packaging. A representative nationwide survey of 1,200 persons conducted by the researchers shows that 92 per cent of the interviewed consumers consider plastic waste in the environment a threat to the preservation of our natural resources and the foundations of life. Despite this widespread awareness, the consumption of plastic packaging continues to grow: In 2018, Germany generated over three million tonnes of plastic packaging waste; more than double the amount produced in 1997. The findings of the ENSURE project indicate that consumers are willing and indeed wish to reduce their consumption of plastic packaging; however, they are hindered by personal and structural barriers. Political action is needed to break down these barriers to change and support consumers in their efforts. This IASS Policy Brief presents three strategic policy recommendations that could help reduce the consumption of packaging in daily life. Following an outline of the broader context and key issues, these three recommendations are explained in detail. In conclusion, we highlight the need for a systemic approach to the reduction of plastic packaging.

Description: An EU Border Carbon Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) may bring severe economic consequences to countries without the resources to adapt to a low-carbon paradigm. The EU should therefore consider possible policy risks and involve third-country stakeholders in CBAM policy design; use CBAM revenues to fund decarbonisation in at-risk countries; and build emissions reporting requirements around existing international obligations.

Description: The purpose of this study is to examine if and how the EU CBAM influences the climate policy debate in Ukraine, one of the countries that is expected to be most affected due to its large share of carbon- intensive exports to the EU. The study seeks to find out how the EU CBAM can be made more instrumental in promoting an increase in the country’s climate policy ambition.

Description: South Africa is in the midst of an energy transition, with important social and economic implications, depending on the pathway that is chosen. Economic prosperity, new sources of income for citizens and households, business and employment opportunities as well as health impacts: through its energy pathway, South Africa will define the basis for its future development.

Description: This report aims to showcase and assess the participative multi-stakeholder approach used in the STRONG High Seas project to co-develop and co-design activities and outputs such as scientific assessments and capacity development programs. In particular, the report provides reflections from the project team on the numerous lessons learned during the project duration on participative multi-stakeholder approaches in transdisciplinary ocean governance research, such as designing and implementing effective engagement strategies, designing targeted capacity development programmes, and fostering co-creative research processes for supporting decision-making and achieving policy impact. The reflections on and recommendations for participative multi-stakeholder approaches within transdisciplinary ocean governance research gained through the course of the STRONG High Seas project can be found in Chapter 3.

Description: This factsheet presents key findings from the 2019/2020 COBENEFITS Assessment Series. Although the national COBENEFITS assessments vary in their applied methodologies and are based on different national scenarios, similar trends can be drawn from the results: If policymakers around the world take the necessary decisions to "build back better" with renewable energy now, they can harness significant co-benefits for their countries.

Description: This guide for action can be used by policymakers at any level or in any form of government to identify how to redesign governance processes to respond to the Fridays for Future Movement in a way that is meaningful and impactful.

Description: This COBENEFITS report gives an overview of enabling policies that have high potential to make fair use of the maximum potential of co-benefit opportunities that can be unlocked by following the pathway of a high share of renewable energies in the power sector. They are presented according to the different COBENEFITS categories. Enabling policies for renewable energy (RE) cobenefits and their specification and implementation are highly context-specific. They need to take into account the context of the country or region they are planned for, and need to be tailored to remove specific barriers preventing communities from unlocking them. Therefore, each enabling policy option presented in this report is accompanied by a short summary of an initial situation that they might solve or improve.

Description: In the last years, the concept of tipping points received increasing recognition in social science and rose on the political agenda. Identifying tipping points would allow researchers to identify the point in time in which a transition happens, and to understand the processes of overcoming lock-in mechanisms and trigger deliberate tipping an existing system into a qualitatively new state. Because tipping points bring about rapid systemic change, it is desirable to further understand how tipping points may be triggered to accelerate the transformation of social and economic systems. There is little doubt that tipping points exist in both social and socio-technical systems because we can observe that systems and societies are fundamentally different today than they were in the past. However, despite a growing body of literature, there remain many open questions how to conceptualise and ultimately operationalize social tipping points. This also stems from a lack of empirical studies and insights observing tipping points in social contexts. In the Tipping.Plus project we addressed this gap with a literature review and empirical case studies investigating tipping dynamics from a public policy and governance perspective. In the literature review we explored definitions, characteristics, and the application of the concept and notion of tipping points in political and governance theories and contexts. In the second step, we conducted an empirical study investigating the socio-economic transition processes of the two German neigbouring cities Essen and Duisburg, which have both phased out their coal industries, as part of the wider structural change in the Ruhr Region. We focused on (political) interventions and their effects on the cities’ development trajectories in the last 30+ years to identify differences in outcome as a function of policy interventions and/or contextual differences. Apart from identifying the key development drivers, we investigate whether either city crossed a tipping point in their transition process (yet), away from coal towards a low carbon but still prosperous future (Mey and Lilliestam 2022). In the following we synthesise the findings of this work and our observations and experiences in order to contribute to the overall Tipping.Plus Integration Framework and Social Theory on social tipping points in energy transitions.

Description: In this report, we identify the needs of the energy model users and the users of energy model results in policy, industry, civil society, and science, both in the present and future. Based on a comprehensive literature review, qualitative interviews in five European jurisdictions, a survey, and a workshop, we identify what different user groups need from energy models: What types of questions, input, and results are useful to them? We also identify user needs regarding the modeling platform of SENTINEL: How do we need to define such a platform to make it worthwhile for potential users?

Description: This report contributes to the modelling work in SENTINEL and beyond in two main ways. First, we provide three social storylines that are closely linked to different governance logics and build on observed social and political drivers and barriers in the European energy transition. This is different than most other storylines used for modelling, because ours are based on governance patterns and normative assumptions of a “good future”, and not on the more common geopolitical or techno-economic storyline assumptions. Second, we provide quantitative, empirical data for several important social/political parameters that can be used together with the storylines or as separate building blocks to answer specific research questions with energy models.

Description: Research undertaken in Task 2.2 identified a range of governance challenges to ocean-based NETs related to the global ocean governance framework, e.g., linked to the transboundary nature of the ocean, potential effects of ocean-based NETs on the ocean’s condition and marine ecosystem services, as well as the many unknowns and uncertainties linked to NET-deployment. The fragmented approaches and frameworks in place to govern the global ocean further complicate comprehensive governance of these emerging technologies. This deliverable presents results from a workshop that explored how ocean-based NETs should be governed to best confront these challenges and integrate international climate targets as well as global goals for ocean and biodiversity conservation, in addition to global ambitions towards sustainable development. The workshop is part of research undertaken by Task 2.2 to assess how ocean-based NETs are addressed by the current global ocean governance framework and develop governance scenarios and recommendations to policy makers for a “good governance” of NETs in the ocean.

Description: Die Arktis erwärmt sich substanziell schneller als der globale Durchschnitt. Der rasche Temperatur-anstieg verändert die Arktis bereits tiefgreifend - und wird dies auch weiterhin tun - mit noch unbekannten Folgen für die Region und die ganze Welt. Gleichzeitig mit dem Rückgang des Meereises und der sich verändernden Verteilung der lebenden Meeresressourcen hat eine Zunahme des wirtschaftlichen Interesses an der Region zu Bedenken hinsichtlich der Nachhaltigkeit der wirtschaftlichen Aktivitäten in der Arktis geführt. Um Wege zu finden, wie der Schutz und die nachhaltige Nutzung der arktischen Meeresumwelt gewährleistet werden können, ist ein umfassendes Verständnis der Meeresumwelt, der sie beeinflussen-den Belastungen und der relevanten Regulierungen und Managementmaßnahmen erforderlich. DasEcologic Institut und das Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies haben sich zum Ziel gesetzt, durch eine Reihe von Berichten zum Meeresschutz in der Arktis einen Überblick über die relevantenInformationen zu geben. Die Berichte konzentrieren sich auf die fünf arktischen Anrainerstaaten: Ka-nada, Dänemark (durch Grönland), Norwegen, die Russische Föderation und die Vereinigten Staaten.Darüber hinaus gibt ein regionaler Bericht einen umfassenden Überblick und fasst die einschlägigen internationalen und regionalen Vorschriften zusammen. Der vorliegende Bericht behandelt die für den Meeresschutz in der russischen Arktis relevanten Informationen. Der Bericht deckt vier Hauptthemen ab: Er beginnt mit der Beschreibung der wichtigstenMerkmale der Meeresumwelt der russischen Arktis. Anschließend werden wesentlichen Belastungen untersucht, die sich auf die marine Biodiversität in der Region auswirken, gefolgt von einer Untersuchung der soziokulturellen und wirtschaftlichen Rolle sowie der Umweltauswirkungen der wichtigsten meeresbezogenen menschlichen Aktivitäten in der russischen Arktis. Der letzte Teil des Berichts gibt einen Überblick über die relevanten nationalen Institutionen sowie über Regulierungen, Vorschriften und Instrumente, die zum Schutz der russischen arktischen Meeresbiodiversität und zur Gewährleistung ihrer nachhaltigen Nutzung eingesetzt werden oder eingesetzt werden könnten. Hinweis: Die in diesem Bericht präsentierten Informationen wurden hauptsächlich während der weltweiten Covid-19-Pandemie und vor dem russischen Einmarsch in die Ukraine im Jahr 2022 zusammengetragen. Die (weiteren) politischen und wirtschaftlichen Auswirkungen dieser Ereignisse und dies ich daraus ergebenden Veränderungen in der Arktis-Governance sind zum jetzigen Zeitpunkt nichtabsehbar, und es ist zu erwarten, dass sich einige der in diesem Bericht dargestellten Entwicklungen und Trends erheblich ändern werden. Die Kernbotschaften des Berichts finden sich unter der folgenden englischen Zusammenfassung.

Description: Global interest and activity in the Arctic have increased greatly in recent decades. The Arctic is warming three times faster than the global average. These rapidly increasing temperatures are already profoundly changing – and will continue to change – the Arctic, with yet unknown consequences for the people, environment, and economy in the region as well as worldwide (SDWG, 2021). The diminishing sea ice extent and the changing distribution of marine living resources have led to an increase in economic interest in the region as well as concerns about the sustainability of economic activities in the Arctic (Raspotnik et al., 2021). The challenge now is to identify development pathways that can ensure the sustainable use and conservation of the Arctic marine environment (SDWG, 2021). In order to identify ways in which conservation and sustainable use of the Arctic marine environment can be ensured, a broad understanding of the marine environment, the pressures affecting it, and the relevant regulations is needed. Ecologic Institute and the Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies aim to provide an overview of relevant information through a series of reports on marine conservation in the Arctic. The reports focus on the five Arctic coastal states: Canada, Denmark (by virtue of Greenland), Norway, the Russian Federation, and the United States. In addition, a regional report is providing a broader overview and summarises relevant international and regional regulations. The reports were published in 2022 and are available for download on the websites of the Ecologic Institute and the Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies. This current report presents an overview of information relevant to marine conservation in the Russian Arctic. The report covers four main issues: it starts with the description of the key characteristics of the Russian Arctic marine environment. Then it examines significant pressures impacting marine biodiversity in the region, followed by exploring the socio-cultural and economic role as well as the environmental impact of the main sea-based human activities in the Russian Arctic. The last part of the report describes the Russian ocean governance system and provides an overview of relevant national institutions as well as rules, regulations and tools which are, or could be, employed to protect marine biodiversity in this region and ensure its sustainable use. NB: The information presented in this report was mainly collated during the global Covid-19 pandemic and prior to the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. The (further) political and economic impacts of these events and resulting changes in Arctic governance cannot be foreseen at this point in time and it can be expected that some of the developments and trends presented in this report may change substantially.

Description: The series of the Yamal 2040 Scenario Workshops is a part of the international research project “BlueAction – Arctic Impact on Weather and Climate” funded through the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Programme. This project aims to evaluate the impact of a changing Arctic on northern hemisphere weather and climate. Blue-Action brings together 120 experts from over 40 organizations in 17 countries most of whom are climate scientists dealing with improvement of existing and development of new techniques that will enable robust and reliable forecasting of weather and hazardous climate events in the Arctic and over the northern hemisphere. However, Blue-Action is not limited to natural science’ goals alone. As a final result, the project aims to improve the safety and wellbeing of people in the Arctic and across the northern hemisphere by reducing risks associated with a changing climate and Arctic operations like resource exploitation, and to support evidence-based decision-making by policymakers worldwide. To achieve this, Blue- Action takes a transdisciplinary approach, bridging scientific understandings of Arctic climate, weather and risk management research with key rights- and stakeholder knowledge. This is being done within the project’s Work Package 5 “Developing and Valuing Climate Services”, which consists of a set of case studies that bring scientists together with stakeholders to co-develop products that “translate” the model outputs and improved modelling skill developed in other work packages into societal- and sectorrelevant products. Our case study in the Blue-Action project develops a study of the impact of the Arctic changes on resource development in the Russian Arctic with the goal of improving stakeholders’ capacity to adapt to these changes. The Yamal 2040 Scenario Workshop series is at the core of the case study. The work carried out in this deliverable is a desk study producing a map of stakeholder groups involved in oil and gas development on the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Okrug (YNAO). This study is part of the preparatory work for the scenario exercise conducted in cooperation with various stakeholder groups active in or affected by oil and gas development in YNAO.

Description: Air pollution exposure in urban areas is a threat to human health. One of the largest sources of air pollution in urban areas is vehicles. This is particularly true for nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and underlines the need for a shift away from motorized individual transport toward healthy, sustainable transport. The paradigm shift - the Verkehrswende or Mobilitätswende (Traffic Transition or Mobility Transition) - as it has come to be called, has enjoyed broad support from citizens and decision- makers alike for decades, yet remains largely unrealized. Berlin was the first city to pass a Mobilitätsgesetz (Mobility Act). This law has many provisions to expand infrastructure for sustainable transport, such as supporting more cycling infrastructure, prioritizing cycling, walking, and public transit, and overall a more liveable, accessible city. To understand the effect of mobility policy on air quality, real-world experiments provide an opportunity to quantitatively assess the effect of such infrastructure changes on air quality. Here we found that the implementation of a bike lane reduced the concentrations of nitrogen dioxide that cyclists are exposed to. Furthermore, the small-scale repurposing of street space through a temporary Spielstrasse (community space) which closed a section of a street to vehicles to open the space for the community, also reduced air pollution during the occurrence of the community space. Such quantitative assessments of urban mobility policies can provide valuable information for policy decisions.

Description: Qu'il s'agisse d'énergie propre, de production durable ou de réduction de la pauvreté, les idées et analyses sur les défis du développement durable ne manquent pas. Pourtant, nous faisons encore trop peu de progrès pour atteindre un état de durabilité. Comment mieux mettre en oeuvre nos connaissances et lier les défis du développement durable, la science et les réponses politiques? Tel est le thème du Global Sustainability Strategy Forum, qui, tous les deux ans, réunira une quinzaine d'éminents experts internationaux sur la durabilité pendant une semaine, et pour la première fois du 4 au 8 mars 2019 à Potsdam.

Description: Despite all the sadness, fear, bewilderment and frustration that it is generating, this pandemic is compelling us to "unlearn" and reshape our realities. In this time of radical uncertainty, two fundamental questions have emerged. Could the coronavirus open our eyes for the importance of a global transformation towards sustainable and resilient societies? More precisely, will we finally realize that human health is intrinsically dependent on healthy ecosystems? For professionals involved in sustainable development research and practice, this tragedy inevitably leads to the important theme of planetary health, an evolving field of research and practice that stresses the deep interconnectedness between nature and human health.

Description: This guide for action can be used by decision-makers at any level or in any form of organisation or business to identify how to respond to the Fridays for Future Movement in a way that is meaningful, responsive and impactful.

Description: In Germany, the costs of renewable energies are financed through a surcharge on the price of electricity. Much speaks for the adoption of a more broad-based approach to financing. The energy transition is a strategic project involving the whole of society and public funding should accordingly be made available.

Description: Ce résumé à l’intention des décideurs se fonde sur le rapport Ecological Baselines of the Southeast Atlantic and Southeast Pacific – Status of Marine Biodiversity and Anthropogenic Pressures in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction. Il fournit des informations consolidées sur les particularités biologiques et écologiques clés des zones situées au-delà de la juridiction nationale (ZAJN) dans l’Atlantique du Sud-Est et met également en évidence les pressions principales qu’imposent à ces dernières les activités anthropiques. Les ZAJN comprennent la colonne d’eau (la haute mer) et les fonds marins (la « Zone ») en dehors de la zone économique exclusive (ZEE) des États côtiers et couvrent près de la moitié de la surface de la Terre. Ce résumé a pour but d’éclairer les acteurs et les parties prenantes concernés afin de les aider à mieux comprendre la fonction et l’importance de la diversité biologique marine dans les ZAJN et la nécessité de mesures de conservation et de gestion appropriées. Ce rapport a été élaboré dans le cadre du projet Strengthening Regional Ocean Governance for the High Seas (« STRONG High Seas ») – financé par le Ministère fédéral allemand de l'Environnement, de la Protection de la nature et de la Sûreté nucléaire (BMU) par le biais de l’Initiative internationale pour la protection du climat (International Climate Initiative – IKI).

Description: This factsheet provides a concise and fact-based overview of various aspects of the digital transformation of African economies and is intended as a basic introduc-tion to this topic.

Description: Jordan’s energy transition has been rapid and ambitious: in 2021 renewables accounted for 26 % of electricity production in Jordan, up from less than 1 % in 2014. This massive leap forward was prompted by energy security concerns in the wake of the Arab Spring that forced the government to scramble for alternatives to Egyptian gas. Today, Jordan is a regional clean energy industry frontrunner, with over 300 PV companies and around 13 000 employees in the sector. However, recent policy decisions have stalled further progress. Auctions for new projects have been scaled back or postponed, and new ventures in excess of 1 MW were indefinitely suspended in January 2019. At the same time, changes to electricity tariff structures have dampened demand for residential PV. This loss of momentum is largely due to financial constraints on Jordan’s state-owned National Electric Power Company (NEPCO), which is caught in long-term purchasing agreements for fossil fuels that conflict with the goal of growing Jordan’s renewable energy sector and are exacerbating NEPCO’s already significant debt burden. With 20 % of public debt linked to the electricity sector, this also has ripple effects for the rest of the Jordanian economy. Increased regional cooperation will be needed to re-negotiate Jordan’s commitments to purchase fossil fuels and to expand the regional market for renewable energy, allowing Jordan to export surplus electricity and establish itself as a clean energy hub while at the same time giving neighbours the chance to sell energy elsewhere and increasing regional stability. And while Jordan’s top-down approach to energy policy was crucial to driving the rapid growth of renewables, the current risk of stalling progress makes it clear that stakeholders from different ministries as well as industry and civil society must be involved in future policy development processes to accelerate Jordan’s energy transition and shift the country from the current single-buyer model towards a more competitive market for electricity.

Description: In this Discussion Paper we show how the Covid-19 pandemic is affecting the Brazilian Amazon, leading to the collapse of health systems in several Amazon cities, endangering indigenous ethnic groups, facilitating the clearance of huge forested plots, and, in the process, giving rise to growing concerns about the possible emergence of new transmissible zoonotic diseases.

Description: From clean energy to sustainable production and the fight against poverty – insights into the many challenges of sustainable development are not in short supply. But despite the wealth of knowledge available to policymakers, little progress has been made in the transformation towards a sustainable future. How can we bring our knowledge to bear more effectively? This question underpins the Global Sustainability Strategy Forum, which will bring together 15 leading international experts for a week-long retreat in Potsdam every two years, beginning on 4 – 8 March 2019.

Description: Carbon capture and utilization (CCU) or CO2 utilization technologies attract researchers, policy makers, and industry actors in search of sustainable solutions for industrial processes. This increasing interest can be explained by the fact that these processes comprise the capturing of CO2 – the most relevant greenhouse gas (GHG) – from the air or industrial point sources, and promote its use as a feedstock for the production of goods. CCU processes are expected to contribute to the greenhouse gas neutrality targets of several industrial sectors and the development of a circular economy. Therefore, understanding the environmental impacts and economics of CO2 utilization routes is essential for decision makers from relevant fields, such as technology developers, entrepreneurs, funding agencies, policy makers, administrators and more. A deep understanding of the specific implications of CO2 utilization technologies is needed to make decisions in line with sustainability strategies, and to discard inappropriate solutions. The ‘Techno-Economic Assessment & Life Cycle Assessment Guidelines for CO2 Utilization’1 (henceforth TEA and LCA Guidelines) published by the Global CO2 Initiative (GCI) in October 2018, represent a milestone in the harmonization of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Techno-Economic Assessment (TEA) for evaluating CCU technologies. Henceforth, we refer to this document as TEA and LCA Guidelines. The TEA and LCA Guidelines provide a guide to overcoming methodological discrepancies that lead to confusion among practitioners, concerning how to conduct assessments, and which often lead to contradictory results.2 3 Documents with a similar focus have also been published by the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL).4 The success of the GCI publication and the demand for such guidelines is evidenced by the strong response that the authors registered in the months following its publication: more than 2,000 copies of the TEA and LCA Guidelines have been distributed in digital form or hard copy, and a growing community of practitioners, and decision makers from science, industry, and public administration are learning how to generate robust and comparable assessments when evaluating CCU technologies. In addition to the guidelines and the present report, the same research group has recently released five illustrative worked examples5 to support the application of the TEA and LCA Guidelines, and three accompanying peer-reviewed articles.6 At the same time, policy officers at national and international levels have frequently signaled the urgency of further developing these tools, to enable evaluation of innovative technologies as a basis for decision making in funding and policy design (e.g., the EU Innovation Fund). Despite the urgent need to address planetary climate change, the development and diffusion of new technologies often takes considerable time. Consequently, leveraging the current momentum amongst all involved actors that CCU has achieved to date is paramount and is an opportunity that must not be missed. Despite demands for aligned assessment methods from the industrial and policy spheres,7 there are evident challenges in dealing with the practical application of such methods in commissioning, reading, and interpreting LCA and TEA studies. There is also a risk of insufficient transfer into policy or other decision-making processes, in cases where the involved actors do not possess disciplinary expertise in the relevant methodology.

Description: KEY MESSAGES1. Without strategic investment in soil rehabilitation and protectionpoor and food insecure households will be left behind and globalagendas will not be achieved! Targeting is of the essence.2. Public investment in soil protection and rehabilitation must beincreased; the private sector has little incentive in investing in soilrehabilitation by food insecure households.3. Cross-sectorial coordination is pivotal to create the right incentivesand to ensure that structural hindrances to SLM are addressedsystematically.4. Technologies for protecting and rehabilitating land and soil at plotand farm levels are well known but are seldom applied at largerscales. Successful adoption – and adaptation – at scale is conditionalon locally owned and driven processes.5. Supportive tenure systems and responsive agricultural advisoryservices are essential preconditions for achieving soil protection andrehabilitation at scale. They must be gender and youth sensitive, andcreate the necessary incentives to protect the soils.

Description: What are the prerequisites for employing superconducting links in the power grid of the future? This document assesses the main elements of a new 3-gigawatt-class superconducting cable. In addition to discussing the technical details of the cable conductor, electrical insulation, and grid connections, it outlines the environmental benefits and future implementation challenges of this new technology. The concluding remarks include recommendations for industry and policymakers.

Description: This study is part of my research project on "Subnational Climate Governance Policies in the Brazilian Amazon – challenges and opportunities of cross border transformative co-creation", carried out at the IASS Potsdam. To acess my article, access https://www.iass-potsdam.de/en/output/publications/2021/subnational-climate-policiesbrazils- legal-amazon-glance.

Description: This report aims to assess the contribution to human well-being of current and potential socio-economic activities in marine Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (ABNJ) in the Southeast Pacific, highlighting human dependence on the ecosystem services that marine Biodiversity in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) provides, as well as on those activities that compete with or generate negative effects on it as a consequence of their deployment. The study focuses on the socio-economic aspects that depend on, and interact with, BBNJ in the FAO 87 region, corresponding to the area in front of the jurisdictional areas of Chile, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia (member countries of the Permanent Commission for the South Pacific or CPPS1), and in general for the well-being of mankind.

Description: The decarbonisation of the European energy system is a large-scale transformation, which demands not only for a techno-economic feasibility analysis, but also for an assessment of the social and political feasibility and environmental impacts. However, most energy models are not able to fully represent the social and political developments and dynamics of the energy transition, such as preferences, acceptance and behavioural changes of citizens and decision-makers. To address this shortcoming, we developed QTDIAN (Quantification of socio-Technological DIffusion and sociAl constraiNts) − a toolbox of qualitative and quantitative descriptions of socio-technical and political aspects of the energy transition. In this deliverable, we present and discuss the linking of QTDIAN with the energy demand models DESSTINEE, HEB and DREEM, and the energy system model Euro-Calliope. The purpose of linking the models is to integrate the outputs from QTDIAN into the energy models to allow for an empirically based and thus more realistic analysis of energy system trajectories, with a higher relevance for informing pending policy decisions. The central question we address is: How can the social storylines and quantifications from QTDIAN be transferred into energy demand and systems models? We show several ways how QTDIAN’s quantified variables allow for a direct application of the storylines into the modelling process of Euro-Calliope, DESSTINEE, HEB and DREEM. The qualitative storylines ensure that modellers do not create technically feasible energy systems that are outside the realms of social or political realities. In addition, the quantitative data can be used to improve the accuracy and especially the policy relevance of the modelling results by providing specific estimates for social and political variables and constraints. However, not all aspects of QTDIAN could be integrated because not all aspects of the storylines could be quantified, and the models to which QTDIAN links in this deliverable are not able to capitalise on all QTDIAN outputs. We identified further requirements for data, including different temporal and spatial scales. We conclude that the linking of QTDIAN with energy demand and energy systems models is a promising approach to better represent socio-political drivers and barriers for technology changes and climate change mitigation measures. We will run the models with the integrated linkage with QTDIAN to evaluate the outcomes and added value of the linking in the context of SENTINEL case studies (WP7).

Description: In this paper, we investigate the socio-economic transition processes of Essen and Duisburg as part of the wider structural change in the Ruhr Region. In the two case studies, we explore causes and effects of the cities’ development trajectories in the last 30+ years, seeking to identify differences in outcome as a function of the interventions and/or contextual differences. We analyse events, interventions and their impacts on the social and economic systems of the two cities across time. Apart from identifying the key development drivers, we investigate whether either city crossed a tipping point in their transition process (yet), away from coal towards a low-carbon but still prosperous future. Therefore, we specifically evaluate the cities’ development trajectories by seeking evidence for “no”, “incremental” or “radical” changes in a set of indicators. Here, we have taken a long temporal perspective, because trajectories of and trajectory changes in social systems are specifically visible in demographic dynamics, economic structures and political arrangements across time.

Description: Die Arktis erwärmt sich substanziell schneller als der globale Durchschnitt. Der rasche Temperatur-anstieg verändert die Arktis bereits tiefgreifend - und wird dies auch weiterhin tun - mit noch unbekannten Folgen für die Region und die ganze Welt. Gleichzeitig mit dem Rückgang des Meereises und der sich verändernden Verteilung der lebenden Meeresressourcen hat eine Zunahme des wirtschaftlichen Interesses an der Region zu Bedenken hinsichtlich der Nachhaltigkeit der wirtschaftlichen Aktivitäten in der Arktis geführt. Um Wege zu finden, wie der Schutz und die nachhaltige Nutzung der arktischen Meeresumwelt gewährleistet werden können, ist ein umfassendes Verständnis der Meeresumwelt, der sie beeinflussenden Belastungen und der relevanten Regulierungen und Managementmaßnahmen erforderlich. DasEcologic Institut und das Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies haben sich zum Ziel gesetzt, durch eine Reihe von Berichten zum Meeresschutz in der Arktis einen Überblick über die relevantenInformationen zu geben. Die Berichte konzentrieren sich auf die fünf arktischen Anrainerstaaten: Kanada, Dänemark (durch Grönland), Norwegen, die Russische Föderation und die Vereinigten Staaten.Darüber hinaus gibt ein regionaler Bericht einen umfassenden Überblick und fasst die einschlägigen internationalen und regionalen Vorschriften zusammen. Der vorliegende Bericht gibt einen Überblick über Informationen, die für den Meeresschutz in der Arktis relevant sind. Der Bericht deckt vier Hauptthemen ab: Er beginnt mit der Beschreibung der wichtigsten Merkmale der arktischen Meeresumwelt. Anschließend werden wesentliche Belastungen untersucht, die sich auf die marine Biodiversität in der Region auswirken, gefolgt von einer Untersuchung der soziokulturellen und wirtschaftlichen Rolle sowie der Umweltauswirkungen der wichtigsten meeresbezogenen menschlichen Aktivitäten in der Arktis. Der letzte Teil des Berichts gibt einen Überblick über die relevanten internationalen und regionalen Vereinbarungen und Rahmenwerke sowie über Regulierungen, Vorschriften und Instrumente, die zum Schutz der arktischen Meeresbiodiversität und zur Gewährleistung ihrer nachhaltigen Nutzung eingesetzt werden oder eingesetzt werden könnten. Hinweis: Die in diesem Bericht präsentierten Informationen wurden hauptsächlich während der weltweiten Covid-19-Pandemie und vor dem russischen Einmarsch in die Ukraine im Jahr 2022 zusammengetragen. Die (weiteren) politischen und wirtschaftlichen Auswirkungen dieser Ereignisse und dies ich daraus ergebenden Veränderungen in der Arktis-Governance sind zum jetzigen Zeitpunkt nichtabsehbar, und es ist zu erwarten, dass sich einige der in diesem Bericht dargestellten Entwicklungen und Trends erheblich ändern werden. Die Kernbotschaften des Berichts finden sich unter der folgenden englischen Zusammenfassung.

Description: The Arctic is warming three times faster than the global average. These rapidly increasing temperatures are already profoundly changing the Arctic – and will continue to do so – with yet unknown consequences for the region as well as worldwide. The diminishing sea ice extent and the changing distribution of marine living resources have led to an increase in economic interest in the region as well as concerns about the sustainability of economic activities in the Arctic. In order to identify ways in which conservation and sustainable use of the Arctic marine environment can be ensured, a broad understanding of the marine environment, the pressures affecting it, and the relevant regulations is needed. Ecologic Institute and the Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies aim to provide an overview of relevant information through a series of reports on marine conservation in the Arctic. The reports focus on the five Arctic coastal states: Canada, Denmark (by virtue of Green-land), Norway, the Russian Federation, and the United States. In addition, a regional report is providing a broader overview and summarises relevant international and regional regulations. This current report presents an overview of information relevant to marine conservation in the Arctic.The report covers four main issues: it starts with the description of the key characteristics of the Arctic marine environment. Then it examines significant pressures impacting marine biodiversity in the region, followed by exploring the socio-cultural and economic role as well as the environmental impact of the main sea-based human activities in the Arctic. The last part of the report provides an overview of relevant international and regional agreements and frameworks as well as rules, regulations and tools which are, or could be, employed to protect the Arctic marine biodiversity and ensure its sustain-able use. NB: The information presented in this report was mainly collated during the global Covid-19 pandemic and prior to the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. The (further) political and economic impacts oft hese events and resulting changes in Arctic governance cannot be foreseen at this point in time and it can be expected that some of the developments and trends presented in this report may change substantially.

Description: Die Arktis erwärmt sich substanziell schneller als der globale Durchschnitt. Der rasche Temperaturanstieg verändert die Arktis bereits tiefgreifend - und wird dies auch weiterhin tun - mit noch unbekannten Folgen für die Region und die ganze Welt. Gleichzeitig mit dem Rückgang des Meereises und der sich verändernden Verteilung der lebenden Meeresressourcen hat eine Zunahme des wirtschaftlichen Interesses an der Region zu Bedenken hinsichtlich der Nachhaltigkeit der wirtschaftlichen Aktivitäten in der Arktis geführt. Um Wege zu finden, wie der Schutz und die nachhaltige Nutzung der arktischen Meeresumwelt gewährleistet werden können, ist ein umfassendes Verständnis der Meeresumwelt, der sie beeinflussenden Belastungen und der relevanten Regulierungen und Managementmaßnahmen erforderlich. Das Ecologic Institut und das Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies haben sich zum Ziel gesetzt, durch eine Reihe von Berichten zum Meeresschutz in der Arktis einen Überblick über die relevanten Informationen zu geben. Die Berichte konzentrieren sich auf die fünf arktischen Anrainerstaaten: Kanada, Dänemark (durch Grönland), Norwegen, die Russische Föderation und die Vereinigten Staaten. Darüber hinaus gibt ein regionaler Bericht einen umfassenden Überblick und fasst die einschlägigen internationalen und regionalen Vorschriften zusammen. Der vorliegende Bericht gibt einen Überblick über Informationen, die für den Meeresschutz in der Arktis relevant sind. Der Bericht deckt vier Hauptthemen ab: Er beginnt mit der Beschreibung der wichtigsten Merkmale der arktischen Meeresumwelt. Anschließend werden wesentliche Belastungen untersucht, die sich auf die marine Biodiversität in der Region auswirken, gefolgt von einer Untersuchung der soziokulturellen und wirtschaftlichen Rolle sowie der Umweltauswirkungen der wichtigsten meeresbezogenen menschlichen Aktivitäten in der Arktis. Der letzte Teil des Berichts gibt einen Überblick über die relevanten internationalen und regionalen Vereinbarungen und Rahmenwerke sowie über Regulierungen, Vorschriften und Instrumente, die zum Schutz der arktischen Meeresbiodiversität und zur Gewährleistung ihrer nachhaltigen Nutzung eingesetzt werden oder eingesetzt werden könnten. Hinweis: Die in diesem Bericht präsentierten Informationen wurden hauptsächlich während der weltweiten Covid-19-Pandemie und vor dem russischen Einmarsch in die Ukraine im Jahr 2022 zusammengetragen. Die (weiteren) politischen und wirtschaftlichen Auswirkungen dieser Ereignisse und dies ich daraus ergebenden Veränderungen in der Arktis-Governance sind zum jetzigen Zeitpunkt nichtabsehbar, und es ist zu erwarten, dass sich einige der in diesem Bericht dargestellten Entwicklungen und Trends erheblich ändern werden. Die Kernbotschaften des Berichts finden sich unter der folgenden englischen Zusammenfassung.

Description: The Arctic is warming three times faster than the global average. These rapidly increasing temperatures are already profoundly changing the Arctic – and will continue to do so – with yet unknown consequences for the region as well as worldwide. The diminishing sea ice extent and the changing distribution of marine living resources have led to an increase in economic interest in the region as well as concerns about the sustainability of economic activities in the Arctic. In order to identify ways in which conservation and sustainable use of the Arctic marine environment can be ensured, a broad understanding of the marine environment, the pressures affecting it, and the relevant regulations is needed. Ecologic Institute and the Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies aim to provide an overview of relevant information through a series of reports on marine conservation in the Arctic. The reports focus on the five Arctic coastal states: Canada, Denmark (by virtue of Greenland), Norway, the Russian Federation, and the United States. In addition, a regional report is providing a broader overview and summarises relevant international and regional regulations. This current report presents an overview of information relevant to marine conservation in Greenland.The report covers four main issues: it starts with the description of the key characteristics of the Greenlandic marine environment. Then it examines significant pressures impacting marine biodiversity in the region, followed by exploring the socio-cultural and economic role as well as the environmental impact of the main sea-based human activities in Greenland. The last part of the report describes the Greenlandic ocean governance system and provides an overview of relevant national institutions as well as rules, regulations and tools which are, or could be, employed to protect the Greenlandic marine biodiversity and ensure its sustainable use. NB: The information presented in this report was mainly collated during the global Covid-19 pandemic and prior to the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. The (further) political and economic impacts oft hese events and resulting changes in Arctic governance cannot be foreseen at this point in time and it can be expected that some of the developments and trends presented in this report may change substantially.

Description: The focus of climate policy is shifting towards local and regional contributions as well as initiatives by different actors and economic sectors, such as transport and traffic engineering. How can multi-level governance approaches be leveraged to enhance climate governance?

Description: Against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, health is receiving unprecedented public and political attention. Yet the fact that climate change also presents us with a health crisis deserves further recognition. From more deaths due to heat stress to increased transmission of infectious diseases, climate change affects the social and environmental determinants of health in ways that are profound and far-reaching. The fundamental interdependency of human health and the health of the environment is encapsulated in the concept of planetary health, a scientific field and social movement that has been gaining force since the 2015 publication of the Rockefeller Foundation-Lancet Commission report “Safeguarding human health in the Anthropocene epoch”. We see an urgent need for strategic communication to raise awareness of climate-health synergies in order to overcome the misperception that climate and health are two independent agendas. The fragmented and sector-focused nature of thinking and action remains a significant barrier to integrating health considerations into climate planning and project development. Inevitably, collaboration across sectors requires a community of practice. Despite recent efforts focused on the climate-health nexus, much work remains to be done to translate scientific findings for policymakers, mobilise climate financing resources in support of health co-benefits, and promote genderjust solutions within climate change projects.

Description: In a decarbonised future electricity system, Europe will rely on fluctuating renewable sources, such as solar PV and wind power, to a much larger extent than today. This means that Europe as a whole and each individual country on the continent must increase the availability of flexibilityoptionsin order to balance the grid. Such flexibility options include dispatchable renewable sources (e.g. concentrating solar power (CSP)with thermal storage), electricity storage, anddemand-response. We start from the notion that the future does not happen, but it is madeby a series of policy decisions between now and then. If this is true, then the electricity system of 2050 is determined by the sum of all policy decisions affecting the power system – the policy pathway – in all legislations in Europeuntil 2050. In this report, we take the first steps towards identifying the potential future role for dispatchable renewables – specifically CSP with thermal storage – as a function of policy decisions that either increase the need for power system flexibility (e.g. fluctuating renewables) or provide flexibility (e.g. storage, dispatchable renewables, flexible demand). We draw on the energy transition logics framework developed by Foxon and colleagues. This framework poses that the space of possible energy transition pathways is a triangle with three distinct policy logicsin its corners: a state-centred logic, in which the central government leads or carries out the transition; a market-centred logic, in which the government sets the framework but leaves all other decisions to market actors; and a grassroots-centred logic, in which the transition is carried out locally with the resources available to each community. Any transition strategy will consist, in some constellation, of policies from these corner. We investigate policy strategies in France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Switzerland and of the European Union as a whole. For each case, we define one dominant pathway, consisting of currently valid, implemented policies of the current (or newly resigned) government. In addition, we identify up to three minority pathwaysfor each case, describing the energy policy visions and strategies of parties that are currently in opposition but could form a government in the future. For each case, we identify pathways representing each of the three logics, bothin narrative formand as a set of 41 quantitative variables affecting the need for and provision of power system flexibility. This report is a primary data source for the power system modelling in the MUSTEC project. This modelling will happen in 2019 and 2020, and will bring detailed, quantitiave insights of how the potential role for dispatchable renewables is affected by energy policy decisions. However,from the data we have derivedhere, we can draw a number of conclusions. We show that all countries and the EU as a whole seek to strongly decarbonise their power systems, as a key part of economy-wide decarbonisation efforts. Some countries have plans that would suffice to fulfil the European (Union and national) commitments under the Paris Agreement: net-zero emissions, mainly or exclusively based on renewables. We also show that all countries seek to vastly expand intermittent renewables, which will trigger a greatly increased need for flexibility. However, this is not reflected in the policies we analysed: no pathway, dominant or minority, is specific on how they want to provide flexibility, especially not at the scale and pace needed. This problem will be exacerbated as the climate targets are tightened and fossil fuels – first coal and lignite (mainly in the 2020s) and later gas power (especially in the 2040s) – are phased out: once this happens, the European power system(s) will lose much of its current flexibility, and unlessother, carbon-free flexibility options are expanded, it will be increasingly difficult to maintain power system stability.

Description: This document fulfils RECIPES delivery 2.1, the literature research for the multi-case study analysis, and covers the theoretical component of criteria for multi-case study analysis. Those criteria are presented in delivery 2.2 as the comparative multiple-case design, which is the methodological framework developed in task 2.2. Thus deliveries 2.1 and 2.2 are tightly linked, and should be taken together as the overall case study framework for WP2. The comparative multiple-case design contains the practical methodological framework required by each partner to execute the case study analysis for task 2.3. Delivery 2.3 explains the case study selection process which was undertaken to arrive at the eight cases studies to be carried out in WP2.

Description: Der globale Wasserbedarf im Energiesektor ist enorm. Ohne Politikwechsel wird er weiter stark wachsen. Dabei gefährdet Wassermangel schon jetzt die weltweite Energieversorgung. Vielerorts musste die Stromerzeugung aufgrund von Dürren oder Hitzewellen bereits vorübergehend zurückgefahren werden.

Description: This paper focuses on barriers and drivers of personal and public engagement. The success of climate change policies in democracies depends on social consent and ownership of the actions taken. Campaigners and decision-makers therefore need to communicate their ideas in a way that speaks to and galvanises people. To do this successfully, the first step is to recognise what motivates people to act and what hinders them. This paper contributes to answering these questions by giving an overview of theories from psychological and communication science on the cognitive biases that obstruct logical decision-making. It then moves on to suggest an alternative to the widely used “fear appeal” in communication about climate change: an opportunity-oriented framing of climate mitigation that connects to people’s values with the prospect of fostering long-lasting engagement with sustainable action. Lastly, the paper explores how the co-benefits framing can be used for policymaking.

Description: Deliberative Mini-Publics (DMPs) employ randomly selected groups of citizens, who work together to develop recommendations on specific issues. In democratic practice, DMPs, which include Citizens’ Assemblies, Citizens’ Councils, Deliberative Panels, Citizens’ Jury, etc., are usually called into action by policymakers to complement representative decision-making. The following describes how DMPs work, why they are used, and what determines their success.

Description: This policy brief provides an overview of the key concepts and discussions currently underway regarding global ocean governance. It is based on the ongoing work of the STRONG High Seas project; it highlights key considerations for States and stakeholders seeking an introduction into ocean governance and makes initial suggestions for improving and enhancing the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity across global policy processes.

Description: This report explores the challenges of address-ing emerging activities in areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ) through a case study – a hy-pothetical proposal to develop commercial fish-eries in the mesopelagic zone. The case study considers how such a proposal might be ad-dressed by existing global and regional bodies and processes and the potential future role of the BBNJ Agreement.

Description: Kenya is a climate and renewable energy frontrunner in the sub-Saharan region. The country is committed to decarbonisation and currently aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 32 % by 2030, relative to the business-as-usual scenario. Kenya has rapidly increased electrification access over the last decade thanks to a strong on- and off-grid renewable energy sector. Electricity from renewable sources covered 88 % of total domestic demand in 2020. The bulk of this is generated using geothermal energy, followed by hydro and wind power. These are complemented by a growing solar PV sector. Despite this laudable progress and the introduction of policies to foster renewables, the energy sector still faces significant challenges, including a lack of universal access, affordability issues and limitations in the transmission and distribution network. These circumstances result in a capacity surplus of generated electricity that cannot be absorbed by demand. Recent discoveries of oil and gas reserves risk derailing efforts to decarbonise the energy sector unless the Kenyan government strengthens its current course. This policy brief identifies three key areas for action to enhance energy security and continue on a sustainable energy path: Recommendation 1: Improve the quality of the grid Kenya should bolster its digitalisation efforts, support the adoption of new technologies, invest in research to reduce inefficiencies, foster regional integration to increase connectivity, and implement demand scheduling mechanisms to harness the advantages of different energy sources. These efforts should be flanked by an update of the national grid code. Recommendation 2: Liberalise the electricity market The procurement process needs to remain competitive and based on least cost criteria. Net metering programmes and renewables auctions should be implemented in order to attract more players and investment. Improved regulations about public-private partnerships and power purchase agreements will be needed to remove bottlenecks for market entry and establish an equal playing field. These measures should be accompanied by open consultations to ensure public participation and improve the investment climate. Recommendation 3: Promote decentralised energy supply options Decentralised renewable energy generation should be promoted to ensure that off-grid consumers can access affordable, reliable, and secure energy. Kenya should enhance sustainable financing structures and improve tax incentives for technology development and distribution of decentralised energy options. Capacity building efforts should target local communities, domestic companies, and government agencies to facilitate the maintenance and administration of off-grid systems and increase their sustainability.

Description: Integrated ocean management (IOM) is an adaptive approach to managing human activities in the ocean, which is rooted in the ecosystem approach. It requires all dimensions of ocean space to be considered – physical, oceanographic, climatic, biological, social, economic spheres – and includes spatial and temporal dynamics of the system. It aims to create a framework for a sustainable ocean economy. To achieve this ambitious aim, management processes need to be integrated across governance, stakeholders, knowledge, system-dynamics, and be trans- boundary, which will form the ‘pillars’ for effective integration. Key features of the proposed integrated approach to ocean management call for enhanced collaboration, knowledge sharing, transparency, coordination, and communication. Community views and values, and scientific, traditional, and local knowledge play key roles in defining the design and operationalization of the above-mentioned pillars. The IOM approach has yet to be applied to ABNJ but is commonly applied to coastal waters. IOM will be increasingly important in ABNJ for addressing the rising challenges of achieving conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity. This report therefore aims to provide an overview on the application of IOM in the context of the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in ABNJ, particularly within the Southeast Atlantic and Southeast Pacific regions. It particularly aims at promoting IOM for ABNJ across sectors and ecological dimensions by considering the application of enabling conditions to achieve cooperation and collaboration between the various actors working in or affecting ABNJ. This report summarises the current challenges facing management of ABNJ, identifies opportunities to implement IOM across boundaries and provides recommendations for moving forward on this urgent priority, guided by the Sustainable Development Goals. Addressing IOM in ABNJ is particularly relevant at this point in time as States are negotiating a new legally binding instrument for the protection and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in ABNJ (referred to in this report as the BBNJ Agreement). Therefore, an opportunity exists for States to embed provisions that will allow IOM to be fully operational in the framework of the BBNJ Agreement upon its adoption and ratification. This report covers the concepts of IOM, its pillars, the importance of IOM for the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in ABNJ and the opportunities for strengthening IOM for BBNJ conservation in both STRONG High Seas project focal regions: the Southeast Atlantic and the Southeast Pacific. After analysing opportunities in these two regions, this report highlights some clear pathways by which this integrated approach can significantly support the conservation of biodiversity in ABNJ. Selected recommendations from this report are included below. For a more thorough set of possible actions and decisions that could be adopted by a range of actors to improve IOM, see Table 2 in Chapter 3.

Description: The primary aim of the report – Ecological Baselines of the Southeast Atlantic and Southeast Pacific - Status of Marine Biodiversity and Anthropogenic Pressures in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction – is to provide decision makers with relevant and useful information on the current status of the marine environment in areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ), both in the Southeast Pacific and the Southeast Atlantic, as well as highlight key pressures placed upon it by human activities. Such information is intended to support decision makers with improved understanding of the functioning and importance of ecological features of ABNJ and their contribution to global human wellbeing.

Description: The risks posed by ozone are largely absent in public debate. Ozone concentrations frequently exceed official limits in nearly every region in Europe and reach hazardous levels. This has negative consequences for human health and the environment.

Description: The 2015 agreement setting forth the UN Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is an important achievement that poses complex and demanding challenges. To adequately address them, judgments must determine contextually and culturally appropriate balances between independently valuable, but often conflicting targets (Singh et al. 2018). Simultaneously, a global coherence across local and regional actions must be ensured, so that local efforts do not destructively interfere with each other, nor overstep limitations in the resources of the planet (Randers et al. 2018). The Global Sustainability Strategy Forum (GSSF) responds to the fact that, after some 40 years sustainability science has produced many insights, but has not really affected our collective behavior with respect to its impact on the environment. Generally, that is deemed to be the result of lack of communication between scientists and the outside world. But might it be that the present practice of science is in itself deficient in producing results that are useful to implement the changes called for? The Forum was established in 2018 with funding from the VW Foundation to identify and address sustainability challenges at the global to regional scales by bringing together, in week-long work-shops, renowned experts in sustainable development and thought leaders in business, government, and civil society from around the world. Under the patronage of Prof. Dr Rita Süssmuth, former President of the German Bundestag, the first Forum was coordinated by Solène Droy with assistance from Paul Skaloud. Moderated by Ilan Chabay (IASS), Sander van der Leeuw (Arizona State University), Ortwin Renn (IASS), 14 panelists convened in Potsdam (Germany) 4-8 March 2019. Eight main lessons emerged from in-depth discussions and reflections towards the end of the forum. They capture some of the main approaches deemed as necessary for science and society to counter patterns and trends of unsustainability and are outlined in this paper. The results were subsequently discussed at the Inland Department of the Office of the German Federal President, addressing fundamental challenges rarely discussed directly at such a high political level. Discussion ranged from tensions between the complexity of the issues and the urgency of the challenges, such as societal acceptance of change, and on the emerging role for compelling plausible visions to inspire and guide sustainability transformation. The expert panel will expand to include decision-makers from business, politics, and civil society to consider strategies for implementation within regional and sectoral contexts. The approach the GSSF develops draws upon indicators and other information to create evidence-informed expert judgments on strategies for implementation of socially just transitions toward sustainable futures at multiple spatial and temporal scales. Of course, the changes required include strengthening and expanding dialogues between scientists, policy makers, business, and civil society; unbiased consideration of diverse sources of knowledge; the substantial refocus of education in an effort to make the central ideas accessible across all ages and segments of society. But that is not enough – the focus of sustainability science itself must be changed to deal with the core issues regarding our current societies’ impact on the environment.

Description: Ce rapport explore les défis liés à la prise en compte des activités émergentes dans les zones situées au-delà de la juridiction nationale (ZAJN) à travers une étude de cas - une proposition hypothétique de développement de la pêche commerciale dans la zone mésopélagique. L‘étude de cas examine la façon dont une telle proposition pourrait être adaptée par les organes et processus mondiaux et régionaux existants et le rôle potentiel futur de l‘Accord BZAJN.

Description: This paper examines the recent interest in hydrogen energy among political and economic leaders in the oil and gas producing states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Although key stakeholders continue to reinforce the fossil fuel systems that have defined the region’s political economy for decades, they increasingly recognize that the hydrocarbon era is drawing to a close. This has led to an increase in various “post-oil” energy investments, which most recently include hydrogen energy. This discussion paper examines why this is the case – that is, why the GCC’s political and corporate leaders are keen on promoting hydrogen energy systems in the region. It shows that the aspiration to produce “green” hydrogen – originating in Europe and Germany in particular – is increasingly seen as a way to broadcast the region’s green credentials, while simultaneously supporting the investments in “blue” hydrogen promoted by the state-owned hydrocarbon giants in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Description: Les mesures visant à soutenir les efforts de conservation doivent faire de la protection de la biodiversité et/ou de l’intégrité écologique leur principal objectif et prendre en compte les pressions cumulatives sur l’environnement marin. Cela implique également d’inclure la connectivité écologique (par ex. les voies de migration des espèces marines ou les impacts transfrontaliers des activités humaines) et les impacts du changement climatique dans leur conception et leur mise en œuvre. En outre, la complexité et la nature dynamique de l’océan, notamment dans les zones situées au-delà de la juridiction nationale (ZAJN), exigent que les efforts de conservation reconnaissent l’incertitude, incluent des options pour y faire face ou s’adapter rapidement aux nouvelles informations scientifiques, et tiennent compte de l’espace tridimensionnel de l’océan. Cela nécessite également que la conception et la mise en œuvre de ces mesures s’appuient sur les meilleures connaissances interdisciplinaires scientifiques et autochtones disponibles. Il sera essentiel que les mesures visant à soutenir les efforts de conservation appliquent des mécanismes de consultation, de cooperation et de collaboration intersectorielles, et qu’elles tiennent compte des échelles spatio-temporelles appropriées pour leur mise en œuvre. Elles doivent refléter des grands objectifs sociétaux et tenir compte de la répartition inégale des retombées socio-économiques découlant des activités d’exploitation dans les ZAJN. Les actions de gouvernance et de gestion doivent reconnaître les systèmes socio-écologiques associés et diversifiés, ainsi que l’articulation entre la santé des océans et le bien-être humain, en intégrant les préoccupations des différentes parties prenantes dans la définition et la mise en œuvre de la mesure ou de l’approche. Il est essentiel que la conception et la mise en œuvre des mesures visant à soutenir les efforts de conservation comprennent des moyens appropriés pour assurer le suivi, le contrôle et la surveillance réguliers des activités humaines, ainsi que le respect et l’application des lois et règlements en vigueur. Les États connaissent bien les instruments juridiques, tels que ceux de la Convention des Nations unies sur le droit de la mer (CNDUM), de l’Organisation des Nations unies pour l’Alimentation et l’Agriculture (FAO, par son acronyme en anglais), des conventions de l’Organisation maritime internationale (OMI), de l’Autorité internationale des fonds marins (ISA, par son acronyme en anglais), ainsi que les mesures de gestion adoptées par les organisations régionales de gestion de la pêche (ORGP). Ils ont développé des structures et des capacités de gouvernance pour soutenir leur mise en œuvre. Dans ce contexte, il est recommandé aux États de soutenir la consolidation et le développement des mesures visant à soutenir les efforts de conservation, afin de s’assurer qu’elles inscrivent leur approche dans le cadre de considérations relatives à la connectivité écologique, à la protection de la biodiversité, à la gestion intégrée des océans fondée sur les écosystèmes et aux implications du changement climatique pour la conservation et la gestion de la biodiversité dans les ZAJN. Pour être efficace, toute mesure visant à soutenir les efforts de conservation proposés pour les ZAJN dans la région de l’Atlantique du Sud-Est doit tenir compte des réalités socio-économiques et politiques des pays dont les zones économiques exclusives bordent ces espaces. En ce sens, il est important de noter le rôle considérable que le secteur de la pêche a historiquement joué et continue de jouer pour la plupart des économies de cette région. La proposition d’instrument relatif à la biodiversité marine des zones situées au-delà de la juridiction nationale (BZAJN), en cours de négociation aux Nations unies, sera fondamentale pour établir la base juridique du développement et de la mise en œuvre de mesures intersectorielles visant à soutenir les efforts de conservation dans les ZAJN. L’efficacité des mesures envisageables pour soutenir les efforts de conservation actuels et futurs dépendra du mode d’intégration de l’instrument BZAJN proposé et de son articulation avec les mesures de conservation et d’utilisation durable établies dans le cadre des organisations de gestion existantes. À cet égard, il est particulièrement important pour la région de l’Atlantique du Sud-Est de savoir comment les ORGP existantes pourront interagir avec l’instrument BZAJN proposé. Compte tenu des difficultés en termes de capacité (technologique, expérience, financière, logistique) de nombreux pays de l’Atlantique du Sud-Est, il est important que les mesures visant à soutenir les efforts de conservation dans le cadre des traités internationaux ou des mécanismes juridiques existants soient intégrées, pratiques et rentables. Le statut juridique différent de la colonne d’eau et des grands fonds marins au-delà de la juridiction nationale et les différentes dispositions juridiques en place représentent un défi pour le développement d’une approche cohérente, complète et intégrée de la conservation et de l’utilisation durable de la biodiversité dans les ZAJN. Le manque d’uniformité dans le respect des règles entre les États du pavillon et l’absence de mécanismes de surveillance et d’application dans les ZAJN compromettent la réalisation d’une approche intégrée pour la conservation et l’utilisation durable de la biodiversité marine dans ces vastes zones océaniques. La grande variété d’instruments existants peut être utilisée pour améliorer la conservation de la biodiversité dans les ZAJN grâce à une meilleure surveillance et une application plus stricte des règles. Cette responsabilité reste celle de chaque État du pavillon, mais à l’heure actuelle, cela se limite au signalement des navires et à une action de suivi minimale de la part des États du pavillon ou du port.

Description: The deep sea is the largest and least understood ecosystem on Earth. Nevertheless, the ocean floor could soon become the site of deep seabed mining operations. Efforts to develop an appropriate regulatory framework are well under way. Greater transparency will be critical to safeguarding ocean sustainability.

Description: The STRONG High Seas project has published a guidance document to support the implementation of the international legally binding instrument for the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement) that is being negotiated under the United Nations. This work is framed in the context of achieving spatial conservation measures but draws on examples from other biodiversity conservation efforts and offers guidance for achieving binding measures for any matter, in any regional fisheries management organisation (RFMO). Aspirations for achieving biodiversity conservation using enforceable, area-based management tools (ABMTs) in an RFMO will require dedicated action if they are to move from aspirations to actuality. Getting legally binding measures for areas beyond national jurisdiction approved and enforced in an RFMO is a complex, multi-stage process. The guidance document offers insights and strategic considerations on how to achieve biodiversity conservation outcomes in an RFMO and have such measures adopted (i.e. made legally binding). It is a distillation of personal experiences including successes, failures, and insights into some of the more arcane aspects of RFMOs’ functioning, derived from the authors’ participation in dozens of meetings at many RFMOs.