Global Climate & Development Institute

Because of its short atmospheric lifespan – 7 to 12 years compared to the centuries-long lifespan of carbon dioxide – methane is a potent greenhouse gas that can warm the atmosphere 86 times faster than carbon dioxide. As such, mitigating methane emissions is the fastest way to slow the rate of global temperature rise.

Energy systems are rapidly changing worldwide as countries respond to climate change, and how this shift to low-carbon energy unfolds will shape the future of global climate action. We work with governments and local stakeholders to ensure that energy transition is fair, inclusive, and people-centered. Our approach combines ground-level research and resource mapping with programs on economic diversification, coal asset repurposing, workforce reskilling, and community-led planning. By embedding social protection, livelihoods, and local priorities into transition pathways, we support fossil fuel–dependent regions in building sustainable and equitable futures without leaving workers and communities behind.

Globally, more than half of fossil fuel production is driven by state-owned enterprises, which also play a critical role in providing employment and revenue for local economies. As energy systems evolve, many SOEs are seeking to diversify into new and emerging sectors. We support this transition through targeted research, strategic analysis, and sector-specific insights that help SOEs identify viable diversification pathways, manage transition risks, and align long-term business strategies with clean energy and low-carbon development goals.

Demand for minerals essential to low-carbon energy technologies is set to rise sharply as the world accelerates climate action. For many Global South countries, these minerals are critical not only for clean energy deployment but also for economic development, given their strategic value and exposure to supply risks. We support governments and public institutions through research, policy analysis, and ecosystem mapping to strengthen responsible mineral development, value addition, and resilient supply chains that align climate goals with national development priorities.

While national governments set climate targets and policy direction, sub-national governments are responsible for translating these commitments into action. This creates a significant demand for finance at the state and regional level to deliver energy transition programs. Through the Meridian Collective, we work with sub-national jurisdictions to identify financing gaps, strengthen project pipelines, and connect implementation-ready initiatives with appropriate public, private, and blended finance solutions, enabling climate ambition to move from plans to delivery.