A Global Transformation towards 1.5 °C - Spring

Team Members: Erica Glenn (Manager), William Hsu (Deputy Manager), Julia Koppman Norton, Ashley Stein, Yu (Cindy) Yen, Elaine Angeles, Emma Gosliner, Neha Walani, Eva Iveroth, Anna Liebowitz, Tavo True-Alcalà

Limiting global warming to 1.5°C requires rapid and coordinated action across countries and economic sectors, yet progress varies widely depending on national policies, economic structures, and political priorities. A comprehensive assessment identified key countries and sectors with the greatest potential to drive global emissions reductions, focusing on factors such as emissions levels, policy readiness, and economic influence. This analysis highlighted the critical role of major economies in shaping global climate outcomes and identified strategic opportunities to accelerate emissions reductions.

The research found that countries such as China, the United States, and members of the European Union play a decisive role in determining global climate trajectories due to their economic scale and emissions profiles. Tailored policy recommendations were developed for each country, focusing on accelerating renewable energy adoption, strengthening climate policies, and reducing emissions in key sectors such as energy and transportation. These actions could create cascading effects by influencing global markets and encouraging broader adoption of climate solutions. By identifying priority countries and policy pathways, this work provides a strategic framework to support international efforts to achieve climate stabilization and accelerate the global energy transition.

Learn more about the MPA-ESP Capstone projects.