Energy, Climate Change and Environment: 2014 Insights
Introduction
The International Energy Agency (IEA), established in 1974, promotes energy security and sustainable energy policies among its 29 member countries and beyond. The IEA aims to ensure reliable, affordable, and clean energy, enhance market transparency, and support global collaboration on energy technology.
Key Objectives
- Energy Security: Ensure access to secure, ample energy supplies.
- Sustainable Policies: Promote policies that drive economic growth and environmental protection.
- Market Transparency: Collect and analyze energy data.
- Global Collaboration: Support energy technology advancements.
- Dialogue: Engage with non-member countries and stakeholders.
Challenges and Solutions
Access to secure, affordable energy is crucial for economic growth and social development. However, current energy supply and consumption practices are harming the environment, contributing to over 60% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The IEA addresses these challenges through various publications, including:
- Tracking and Reporting: Energy and emissions statistics.
- Modeling Work: World Energy Outlook and Energy Technology Perspectives.
Policy Analysis
This publication focuses on policy tools to address energy and climate challenges:
- Accelerating Infrastructure Upgrades: Tools to unlock space for clean energy.
- Emissions Trading: Cost-effective frameworks for emissions reduction.
- Alternative Metrics: Supporting short- to medium-term emission reductions and long-term low-carbon transformations.
Special Focus: Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gas Emissions
This year's special focus examines the linkages between air pollution control and greenhouse gas emissions. It explores how policies aimed at improving air quality can reduce carbon emissions and vice versa, drawing on experiences from various countries at different developmental stages.
Regional Data
The report provides regional energy-related emissions data, offering insights into trends and drivers of emissions over recent years.
Implementation of Pledges
As international climate negotiations move towards a new agreement in 2015, the IEA plays a role in supporting the tracking of countries' contributions, many of which require transforming energy sectors.
Conclusion
To achieve a clean energy future, significant changes are needed to shift away from current trends. The energy landscape offers numerous options for transitioning to a more secure, affordable, and sustainable system in a carbon-constrained world. This publication aims to help better understand the key challenges and options in this transition.
