Launch of new CEM Campaign on sustainable lifestyles, fairness and access to clean energy technologies

[Foz do Iguaçu, 1st October] — In a major new initiative, the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) is proud to announce the launch of the “CEM Campaign on sustainable lifestyles, fairness and access to clean energy technologies” that puts people at the heart of the clean energy transformation. Led by the European Commission, this initiative is an important step in ensuring that no one is left behind as we move towards greener and more competitive economies.

The clean energy transition’s success hinges not only on adopting more efficient technologies, but also on the ability to manage energy consumption and the emissions we generate. Shifts in lifestyles and behaviours have the potential to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 40-70% by 2050 according to the latest report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Individual and collective efforts to embrace sustainable practices can therefore have a profound impact on mitigation. 

The new campaign aims at raising awareness on behavioural change at all levels, while ensuring that also the most vulnerable groups have access to clean energy technologies. Policy measures need to be developed with the fairness dimension in mind, as not all societal groups can or should reduce their energy consumption or have equal access to such technologies. At the same time, those contributing least to climate change are suffering most from its adverse effects.  

The new campaign aims to embed social justice in the clean energy transition by enabling countries and partners to incentivise and share policies that support our societies to move forward in a fair way that leaves no-one behind. 

The initiative, co-led by the European Commission, Japan, and Norway, with more CEM members announcing their active involvement in the coming days, will catalyse coordination and collaboration paving the way for accelerated action to ensure a sustainable and fair energy future for generations to come.  Other non-governmental organisations such as the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy and Sustainable Energy for All will join as partners. Other countries and organisations are welcome to join.

Andriana Sukova, Deputy Director General at DG Employment, social affairs and inclusion, European Commission

“We need to ensure everyone benefits and is supported as we move towards greener economies. The transition has to work for all, not just the few.  We are proud to take the lead on this new campaign, that will enhance cooperation and share best practices to put the attention on the impact of the energy transition on people, and especially vulnerable households. Shifting behaviour to more sustainable lifestyles will contribute to the achievement of climate neutrality in close cooperation with all administrative levels and partners.”

Brian Dean, Director, Energy Transitions at Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL)

“Sustainable lifestyles hold the key to global transformation, enabling local development that benefits both people and the environment. For example, energy efficient choices are not just about adopting new technologies— they empower people to make each kilowatt-hour count. By prioritizing efficient lifestyles, we create more affordable and sustainable energy services that improve wellbeing and quality of life for everyone.”

Andy Deacon, Co-Managing Director, Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy (GCoM)

“This new campaign is a crucial step toward integrating social equity and fairness in the clean energy transition, and we are proud to partner on this effort. Cities and their residents play a vital role in driving change, and by working in collaboration with all levels of government, sectors and communities, we can tackle the climate crisis and create a fairer, more sustainable future for everyone.”

For press inquiries, please contact secretariat@cemsecretariat.org