Consumption patterns, well-being and climate change – How are they related? With Marta Baltruszewiecz

The energy sector is the main source of greenhouse gases,
particularly in the form of CO2 produced by the burning of coal,
oil and gas – the most recent IPCC report has once again
underlined the urgency to act here. Accordingly, personal energy
footprints are related to certain consumption patterns and
wealth.


This raises questions of liability, but also whether and how the
unequal distribution of wealth is in itself a major cause of
climate catastrophe. On the one hand, the concept of the
"ecological footprint" is suitable to show individual
responsibility and personal contribution to climate change. At
the same time, it carries the risk of shifting the focus from the
main polluters to the average or even low-income sections of
society, by blaming individuals.


We talk to our guest Dr Marta Baltruszewicz about the the link
between energy consumption patterns and well-being. Marta
Baltruszewicz has conducted research at the University of Leeds
focusing on these areas. What are the links between consumption,
shopping, travel, food, housing, heating and climate change on
the one hand and the distribution of wealth on the other? We will
also discuss with her whether people with more money would be
able to invest in climate-friendly technologies such as renewable
energies - why is this not happening faster? Do we need new
paradigms like sufficiency for climate justice?