International Low-Carbon Clubs

This project aims to support a new kind of international cooperation among smaller groups of countries that are willing to lead on the transformation to a low-carbon economy. We call these groups transformational low-carbon clubs or “2 degrees clubs,” in reference to their commitment to limit emissions so that global temperatures rise no more than two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial temperatures. They are different from existing clubs, partnerships, and initiatives because they combine an ambitious vision, clear criteria for membership, and concrete activities that lead to significant economic benefits for the club members. These low-carbon clubs could potentially demonstrate successful examples of low-to zero-carbon development pathways consistent with reaching the two degree target while fostering development, economic growth, and security benefits. Such examples could be replicated globally and ultimately catalyze higher ambition in the multilateral climate regime.

This project works on several aspects of low-carbon clubs:

• Analyze existing clubs, partnerships, and initiatives, identify their strengths and weaknesses, and assess their contribution to greenhouse gas emission reductions and the transformation towards a low-carbon economy.

• Understand the role that clubs could play within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

• Support the development of truly transformational low-carbon clubs by proposing new clubs, refining ideas with input from interested stakeholders and government officials, and analyzing potential benefits for member countries.