The International Energy Agency (IEA) has released a short video for young people, emphasising the importance of taking action on climate change.
In an associated press release, the IEA highlights three key areas in which emissions reduction needs to take place:
Electricity. Fossil fuel based production needs to be to some extent replaced with greater renewable energy use. The IEA predicts the by the middle of this century, renewables need to account for approximately half of electricity supply.
Transport. Vehicles need to be manufactured for greater fuel efficiency. There also needs to be a shift to lower carbon modes of transport, including mass transit, bicycles and walking.
Buildings. Buildings consume more than 30% of energy. More energy efficient buildings will require less energy to heat, cool and light their premises. This is particularly true in developing countries where most of the buildings that will exist in 2050 are yet to be built. In Europe most of the buildings that will be in use in 2050 already exist therefore revovations will need to be made.
Reducing the emissions produced by industry is also important. Iron and steel, cement and chemicals are the principle areas for action.
Adapted from press release by Emma McAleavey