The sixth comprehensive assessment of climate science by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which was released in April, warns that the transition to a low-carbon economy is not happening quickly enough.
The report recognizes the significant impact consumers may have on reducing climate change. This is good news because the IPCC has now evaluated the possibility of "demand-side strategies," which have the ability to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 40–70% by 2050. In actuality, this translates to consumers changing their travel habits, home heating, cooling, and energy usage, as well as their food consumption and product purchases. Consumers won't be able to make these adjustments, though, unless they are encouraged by structural reforms and bold government action. Additionally, it must be done honestly; otherwise, it could undermine social cohesiveness and result in the rejection of mitigation strategies.
Building consumer trust and bolstering support for the radical reforms we need to undertake will depend on the participation of consumer organizations in decision-making, along with other pertinent actors.
The Call to Action from COP26 the previous year made it obvious how such trust might be developed. This centered on securing government commitment to develop an environment that is conducive to quick changes in consumer behavior, a "consumer fairness test" for climate policy, and the growth and depth of consumer representation and engagement.
Consumers International was successful in its campaigns to amend the United Nations Guidelines for Consumer Protection in 1999 and 2015 so that sustainability was gradually incorporated. We are prepared to build on these and other accomplishments, collaborating with all pertinent parties to implement the IPCC report's suggested solutions. Together, we can take the swift steps required to facilitate a fair and environmentally friendly transition.
To mitigate climate change, include many different factors. Large corporations and industries have a major influence, of course. Thus, the IPPC pleads for a faster exit from a carbon rich economy. Nevertheless, if there is a serious shift and noticeable drops in temperatures, everyone must feel responsible. Ordinary consumers can already achieve great results by changing their general daily habits.
With global goals that must be achieved until 2030 to prevent disastrous consequences for our planet and life, everyone must be aware of what the problem is and what needs to be done to fix it. The global society has already great awareness concerning the achievement of certain goals and works on it through smart and innovative approaches.
Source: https://www.consumersinternational.org/news-resources/news/releases/latest-ipcc-report-highlights-need-for-more-talk-about-consumers/