In 2019, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) published the tenth edition of its Emissions Gap Report, which revealed that the world must immediately begin delivering deeper and faster greenhouse gas emission cuts to keep global temperature rise to 1.5°C. To achieve this goal, we will need to use the full range of emission reduction options, including the implementation of material efficiency strategies. The International Resource Panel (IRP) has been providing insights into how humanity can better manage its resources since 2007. Its research shows that natural resource extraction and processing account for more than 90 per cent of global biodiversity loss and water stress and approximately half of global greenhouse gas emissions. This new IRP report, Resource Efficiency and Climate Change: Material Efficiency Strategies for a Low-Carbon Future, commissioned by the Group of 7, points to exciting new opportunities to reduce these impacts through material efficiencies in homes and cars. Climate mitigation efforts have traditionally focused on enhancing energy efficiency and accelerating the transition to renewables. While this is still key, this report shows that material efficiency can also deliver big gains. According to IRP modelling, emissions from the material cycle of residential buildings in the G7 and China could be reduced by at least 80 per cent in 2050 through a series of material efficiency strategies. A more intensive use of homes, design with less material, and improved recycling of construction materials are among the most promising strategies.

Likewise, material efficiency could deliver significant emission reductions in the production, use and disposal of cars. Specifically, material efficiency strategies could reduce emissions from the material cycle of passenger cars in 2050 by up to 70 per cent in G7 countries and 50 to 60 per cent in China and India. The largest savings would come from a change in patterns of vehicle use (ride-sharing and car-sharing) and  shift towards more intensive use and trip-appropriate smaller cars. This report makes it clear that natural resources are vital for our well-being, our housing, and our transportation. Their efficient use is central to a future with universal access to sustainable and affordable energy sources, emissions-neutral infrastructure and buildings, zero- emission transport systems, energy-efficient industries and low-waste societies. The strategies highlighted in this report can play a big part in making this future a reality.