"We have less than 10 years to halt the global rise in greenhouse gas emissions if we are to avoid catastrophic consequences for people and the planet. It is, simply, the greatest collective challenge we face as a human family"

United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon

August 2009

The world needs to quickly embark on the transition to a secure, lower carbon trajectory and prepare for change.

Solutions exist now and many can be deployed quickly if conditions are right. In order to make faster progress, new policy will continue to be introduced across energy, transport and many other sectors.

IDLS has significant experience and expertise in relevant policy processes.

IDLS works across sectors and disciplines to understand what works best in different situations.

We use the benefit of past experience in both developed and developing countries to understand how to accelerate the transition to a low carbon economy.

In addition to known solutions, new ideas are needed in supporting the technologies and behaviours that will lead to long-term low carbon development.

This means new commitments to research and development in the private and public sectors.

But scarce resources must be allocated appropriately to balance the imperative for quick results against long term needs. 

IDLS can analyse and advise on research, with knowledge of the complexity associated with climate change research.

We can help with research programme design and implementation, with a focus on practical, action-research and translating research findings into real progress on the ground.