The world finds itself trapped in the grip of cascading crises — from global poverty and inequality, to hunger and conflicts — that require collective action to address.

In particular, climate change is a global challenge that calls for global solutions. The battle to keep the 1.5-degree limit alive will be won or lost this decade. We need to act together to close the emissions gap, and transform our energy systems to secure the liveable future required by people and planet alike.

The theme of this year’s report – Opening green windows: Technological opportunities for a low-carbon world – reminds us that innovation and frontier technologies can drive the transformative solutions we need.

We need a revolution in renewable energy innovation and technology. Supported by adequate regulations, incentives and investment, renewables provide a clear path to real energy security, affordable power prices and sustainable employment opportunities.

Above all, we must support developing countries as they make the transition to renewable energy.

A renewables revolution means sharing knowledge and technologies with all countries, equally. Currently, the majority of global renewable energy capacity, technology and expertise is housed within a handful of countries. As the world transitions to a net-zero, resilient and just future, we cannot allow developing countries to fall behind.

A renewables revolution also means ensuring that policies and processes are in place to reduce market risk and attract investments to the renewable energy transition across developing countries. Together with international financial institutions and the private sector, developed countries must level the playing field to fast-track renewable energy projects in developing countries. The fight against climate change is everybody’s fight.

By working in solidarity and creating the conditions for the renewables revolution, we can harness the full potential of a just transition for all countries, and pass on a greener, prosperous and more sustainable world to our children and grandchildren.

Report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development