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The 1st industrial revolution was fuelled with coal, the 2nd with mainly oil, gas and to some extent nuclear energy while the 3rd one experienced a shy introduction of renewables in the energy mix. The 4th industrial revolution might well be fuelled first with energy savings if countries from all over the world implement the Paris Climate Agreement.
It was impossible to imagine a year ago. It’s hard to believe today, but the world might well move on the post-Paris Climate Agreement without Europe!
For once, the European Commission cannot be blamed for this “ridiculous” situation as President Juncker described the slow ratification by the EU of the climate deal. It could even be the opposite: we may well have to applaud the European Commission if its proposed fast-track ratification succeeds in giving EU leaders a seat at the table of the post-Paris climate decisions.
Delivering the ambitious climate change targets of the Paris Agreement can only be achieved through the effective combination of energy efficiency and renewable energy. Together, they offer the best opportunity to quickly and cost-effectively move towards a decarbonised energy system. It is important that both are delivered through integrated policies and measures in a holistic manner.
Maison de la Culture du Japon (Paris)
