The United Nations called on all nations this week to adopt emergency energy-saving actions. The appeal emphasizes tighter limits on air conditioning and heating use and thoughtful changes in transportation.
According to a new UN report presented by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, conserving energy, boosting public transit, and embracing nature-based solutions are crucial responses to the current energy crisis, which many experts link to the conflict in Ukraine and its global ripple effects.
The document outlines a sequence of short, medium, and long term measures, starting with directives that primarily target wealthier nations while inviting all governments to step up action now.
While urgent steps that have already gained traction in various regions are encouraged, such as raising summer cooling temperatures and lowering winter heating targets, the UN also proposes policies that can be deployed within months. These include improving building insulation and upgrading heating systems to be more energy efficient.
Big expense for heating
Reflecting on recent years, the report notes that heating accounted for roughly half of global final energy consumption in 2021, underscoring how swift reductions in usage can yield meaningful impact across economies.
Regarding cooling, the document explains that lowering thermostat settings by even one degree can cut appliance energy use by about ten percent, a finding supported by ongoing efficiency programs and real-world trials.
The UN also underscores continued improvements in public transport infrastructure, including modest changes such as lower speed limits, financial incentives for buses and shared mobility, and minimizing nonessential business travel when workable alternatives exist. When feasible, greater emphasis is urged on rail travel over air travel to minimize emissions and energy waste.
At the same time, governments are urged to protect the most vulnerable households by easing access to energy and cushioning consumers from price shocks through targeted support.
In the medium and longer term, the UN calls for stronger commitments to renewable energy, improved electricity interconnections, and forward-looking policies that foster a green economy and reduce energy waste.