Climate change and resource scarcity

Demand for a clean, green tomorrow will advance energy and conservation.

The persistent increase in global emissions has led to intensifying debates around climate change and how we can resolve it. There are several forces underpinning this megatrend—such as an expanding population and the rising demand for food, and the energy and materials that continue to strain the finite resources of the planet—making the need for solutions that address resource scarcity greater than ever.

Climate change: The earth in the hot seat

The impact of climate change is evident when looking at the numbers:

  • 50% of the world’s energy is predicted to come from solar and wind by 2050, up from just 7% in 20151
  • Renewables are set to represent ¾ of the $12 trillion the world invests in new power technology through 20401
  • The US National Climate Assessment report noted that sea levels are now rising twice as fast as 25 years ago2

How can we invest in solutions?

The social and economic consequences of climate change are substantial. As a result, new solutions to address finite resources continue to emerge, presenting opportunities to invest in companies that are focused on making a positive impact - through energy efficiency, sustainable food systems and scarce material alternatives.

Clean energy is cheaper than it has ever been

In some countries, clean energy sources are comparable to natural gas and coal power in terms of unit costs and rely less on government subsidies each year.

88%  The average price of solar module has fallen 88% since 20103




40%  The cost of wind turbines has declined by over 40% since 20103

Resource scarcity: Getting more out of less

As large emerging markets continue to grow, the need for nutrition rises with per capita GDP. This greater demand will require agricultural solutions, as it will have to be satisfied with fewer resources.

Globally, the area of land dedicated to agriculture has persistently declined over the last 20 years and with it so has agriculture’s share of total employment – going from 42% to 25% in the last 30 years.4