A new study led by Jarmo Kikstra, a researcher in the IIASA Energy, Climate, and Environment Program, reveals that it is feasible to end poverty without compromising climate objectives. The study underscores the critical importance of aligning development priorities with climate mitigation goals. It is a powerful demonstration that effective climate policies can redress deep inequities, meet our most basic human needs, and stay well within the radiant limits of the Paris Agreement.
On May 13, 2025, we downloaded the research paper. It investigates pathways to the energy-related targets of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the energy targets of the Paris Agreement. Kikstra emphasizes that immediate and decisive action is essential to reduce emissions while ensuring a decent standard of living for all. He highlights a significant finding: only about one-third of global energy consumption is necessary to support basic human dignity.
Bas van Ruijven is team leader of the Sustainable Service Systems Research Group at IIASA. He’s convinced we can cut our future energy requirements by a third—at least—while achieving zero emissions. We believe this dual approach is one of the strongest opportunities in our time to combat climate change while lifting people out of poverty.
The study demonstrates that sustainable development scenarios can dramatically lower the number of individuals lacking sufficient energy for basic household needs. According to new projections, the number of people who cannot afford to fulfill their energy needs would drop by more than 90%. This initial finding points toward the conclusion that with a strong commitment to sustainable energy practices, poverty—to an overwhelming extent—is not an insurmountable condition, but a preventable societal failure.
Kikstra’s research has drawn links from highly localized, granular assessments of energy needs directly to global, integrated modeling for emissions reductions. These findings paint a stark picture—showing that the world is using nearly twice as much energy as needed to meet people’s basic energy needs. By reallocating resources and implementing strategic policies, it is possible to ensure that everyone has access to the energy required for a decent standard of living without exceeding climate targets.
The implications of this research are significant. By prioritizing sustainable development alongside climate objectives, policymakers can create a framework that not only addresses environmental concerns but champions social equity. These results demonstrate that an inclusive approach to energy consumption and emissions reduction is possible. This goal is not just aspirational; it is fully attainable.