Climate change, just transition and renewable energies
Climate change is a driver of social inequality and a key threat to security in the 21st century. More and more people around the world are being deprived of their livelihoods by increasing weather extremes, rising sea levels and the growing threat of environmental disasters. That is why a reduction in emissions and adaption to the unavoidable consequences of climate change are of crucial importance to the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH.
GIZ supports people around the world to better prepare for a changing climate and extreme weather, with approaches such as climate-resilient plants in agriculture, water-saving methods and adapted urban planning. It also advises countries on developing and implementing national adaptation plans (NAPs).
In addition, GIZ supports the transition to a climate-neutral, environmentally friendly economy and society. It promotes the expansion of renewable energy sources and green hydrogen production, as well as climate-friendly, resource-efficient technology to avoid greenhouse gas emissions. GIZ seeks to shape this transition in a way that is socially just. This means change must go hand in hand with better living conditions (just transition).
This approach harbours opportunities – not least the green jobs that can be created if we as a global community combine climate adaptation and protection measures with technologies and innovation. GIZ has many years of experience working in sectors that are of key importance for a climate-adapted and green economy: agriculture and adjustment to climate change, renewable energies and their expansion, a private sector geared to future technologies, the sustainable transformation of towns and cities. GIZ uses this knowledge around the world in technical vocational education and training to prepare people for the green labour market (green skills). Economic development and climate action therefore go hand in hand.
The figures below (reference year: 2022) illustrate GIZ’s activities:
Almost 7 million tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2 equivalents) saved
More than 10.5 million people supported in coping with the consequences of climate change
Over 5.5 million people with improved or even first-time access to modern energy
Almost 470,000 kilowatts of additional electricity generated using renewable energy
More than 11.5 million people in urban areas now benefit from improved or newly created sustainable infrastructure or basic services
