Difficult conversations spark new perspectives on climate action

The climate crisis is a systemic and complex issue affecting us all; but it is a challenge that can and must be solved. To achieve that we need to ask ourselves how could we spark global transformation and unprecedented collective action? 

A growing number of people and organisations recognise that working through gradual, incremental changes is not enough. What we need today is a fundamental transformation of economic, social and financial systems that will trigger exponential rates of decarbonisation and strengthen climate resilience. 

But systems transformation requires a willingness to accept the uncomfortable truths that stand in the way of meaningful progress. By confronting our own discomfort, embracing diverse and challenging perspectives, and understanding the multifaceted layers of our challenges, we can set a path for transformative action on a global scale. 

Insights from the outside

Tapping into the incredible collective intelligence of multidisciplinary experts, practitioners, thinkers and storytellers to reflect on humanity’s greatest challenges, EIT Climate-KIC hosted a series of conversations initially designed to bring outside perspectives to the next iteration of our strategy, Transformation, in Time. We observed a much broader set of ideas emerge.  

This dialogue generated actionable insights that span universal themes, allowing us to look beyond our own horizons to see the trends and patterns that transcend the barriers of our individual disciplines and connect us all. The subsequent “Insight from the Outside” capture the essence of these conversations under 10 themes:

• Short-termism

• Leadership

• New narratives and future visioning

• Planetary health and human health

• Confusion and crisis

• Theory of action

• Justice and equity

• Broken institutions, useful institutions

• Urgent massive action plays

• Radical collaboration

From the urgency of addressing short-termism to the necessity of transformative leadership, the reports underscore the critical need for comprehensive systemic change.

One crucial insight focused on the power of narrative in driving climate action. The collective crisis of imagination demands new, positive narratives that inspire action towards a future worth having. Understanding the narratives that fuel change emerged as a central theme.

Another report delves into the challenge of polarisation and the confusion that crisis inevitably brings. History has shown us that change happens in the aftermath of a crisis, when we look for answers and solutions. The call for unity in messaging and preparedness of the climate movement was echoed throughout the conversations.

But most of all, it was clear that radical collaboration, a reimagining of how to shift mindsets and behaviours and an emphasis on justice and equity must be our guiding principles as we move forward.

Our invitation to you

The journey doesn’t end here. EIT Climate-KIC will share these 10 insights over the coming weeks, culminating at COP28. As we do, we invite you to rethink your own challenges and join us in conversations to share, explore and learn from our collective journey of understanding the complexities of climate action.

Every month, you can join a series of interactive events hosted by EIT Climate-KIC and stay tuned to our website and our social media channels for interviews with experts, collaborative spaces and moments of self-reflection.

Wherever you may be in the world, we encourage you as an individual, in your work, or within your local community, to discuss and engage in those difficult conversations. Only through dialogue and collective learning can we build a sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.