Happier, healthier, richer through 1.5° lifestyles? Or? Our paper on the potential rebound effects of 1.5° lifestyles is out, and it is open access!
In our newly published paper, lead by Jessika Richter from the University of Lund, we summarise the outcomes of the Co-creation Workshops on Rebound Effects of 1.5° Lifestyles with citizens already practicing at least some elements of such lifestyles (e.g. following a plant-based diet, living car-free, living small, or living flight-free).
We find that low-carbon behavioural changes, such as giving up car ownership, flying, meat consumption or reducing living space, have a range of social and personal impacts on individuals and households. Our research, conducted in five European countries, highlights both positive and negative impacts on factors such as individual freedom, well-being and social dynamics. Importantly, individuals who are intrinsically motivated and environmentally conscious are better able to avoid rebound effects that undermine the benefits of carbon savings. These individuals are more likely to reinvest their savings in other low-carbon options, creating positive spillover effects. In addition, social support plays a crucial role in helping people cope with the challenges of adopting a low-carbon lifestyle.
Jessika Luth Richter, Matthias Lehner, Anna Elfström, Josefine Henman, Edina Vadovics, Janis Brizga, Andrius Plepys, Oksana Mont,
1.5° lifestyle changes: Exploring consequences for individuals and households,
Sustainable Production and Consumption,
Volume 50, 2024, Pages 511-525, ISSN 2352-5509,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.spc.2024.07.018