The EU 1.5° Lifestyles project colleagues from RIFS and Green Liberty (Pia Mamut, Doris Fuchs, Karlis Laksevics, Lea Becker, Halliki Kreinin and Janis Brizga) have recently published a research paper, "From Responsibility Ping-Pong to Shared Responsibility for 1.5° Lifestyles?", which sheds light on the complex dynamics of climate governance and the collective efforts needed to achieve the 1.5°C goal of the Paris Agreement. Based on findings from Work Packages 3 and 5 of the project, this publication examines the systemic barriers and opportunities for promoting sustainable lifestyles across Europe.
Published in Consumption and Society, the research addresses the phenomenon of 'responsibility ping-pong', where governments, businesses and individuals pass the buck for environmental change. It highlights the importance of moving from fragmented narratives to a shared, equity-based framework of responsibility.
Key findings
- The study shows that current climate governance often perpetuates a culture of blame that hinders effective action. Nevertheless, there is potential for organising shared responsibility among different stakeholders amongst these complex responsibility dynamics.
- The findings identify systemic challenges such as entrenched economic growth paradigms, infrastructural lock-ins, and the influence of vested interests, all of which limit the scope for individual action.
- Drawing on stakeholder thinking labs, expert interviews and policy Delphi workshops in Germany, Hungary, Latvia, Spain and Sweden, the paper explores how collaborative frameworks can bridge the responsibility gap. This involves integrating public accountability systems and fostering societal deliberation on equitable climate action for shared responsibility.
- The research emphasises that while governments have a key role to play in policy and regulation, businesses and individuals must also be proactive. Businesses are urged to drive green innovation and adopt sustainable models, while individuals are called upon to take action.
- The study underscores the need for multi-stakeholder collaboration to overcome structural barriers and advance transformative policies. It highlights the potential of public accountability systems and participatory approaches to mitigate risks of authoritarianism and greenwashing, while promoting inclusivity and equity.
Access the full paper
The research paper is available under an open access licence and can be accessed here.
Cite as:
Mamut, P., Fuchs, D., Becker, L., Laksevics, K., Kreinin, H., & Brizga, J. (2024). From responsibility ping-pong to shared responsibility for 1.5° lifestyles? Examining European stakeholder perspectives. Consumption and Society (published online ahead of print 2024). https://doi.org/10.1332/27528499Y2024D000000039
For more information on the EU 1.5° Lifestyles project and its findings, keep an eye on our website and "Resources / Reports & Outputs " tab.
RIFS Team