Why Some Countries Lead in Climate Action

Climate change is a big challenge, and many people want to know why some countries are taking big steps to fight it while others are not. Most studies focus on the problems that stop countries from taking action. But what if we look at it differently? What if we ask, "What helps countries take big steps to fight climate change? " This is a solution-oriented perspective. It's about finding what works, not just what doesn't. This approach brings together different groups of researchers who have been working separately. They have different ideas about how the world works and how to study it. By working together, they can find common ground and make a bigger impact. The solution-oriented perspective is all about finding the political enablers that help countries take big steps to fight climate change. These enablers are like the keys that unlock the door to ambitious climate policies. There are six main enablers. Each one has important lessons for policymakers. For example, one enabler might be strong leadership. Another could be public support. Understanding these enablers can help countries get back on track to meet their climate goals, like those set by the Paris Agreement. To make this idea clearer, let's look at a real-world example. Germany and the European Union (EU) have been working on emission trading systems in the transport and building sectors. These systems are a way to limit greenhouse gas emissions by putting a price on them. By studying this case, researchers can see how the six political enablers work in practice. This can help future studies build on what has already been learned. It's important to note that climate change is a complex issue. There are many factors at play, and what works in one country might not work in another. But by focusing on the enablers, researchers can find common threads that can be applied more widely. This approach can help countries take bigger steps to fight climate change and meet their climate goals. The solution-oriented perspective is a fresh way to think about climate policy. It's about finding what works, not just what doesn't. By focusing on the political enablers, researchers can help countries take bigger steps to fight climate change. This approach brings together different groups of researchers and can make a bigger impact. It's a promising way to tackle one of the biggest challenges of our time.