A new study shows that some areas are at risk of being more negatively affected as society moves towards a fossil-free future. In addition, the positive health effects of climate change do not benefit them to the same extent as other social groups.

The study, carried out in Sweden, predicts that around 40 percent of Swedes – especially those living in sparsely populated areas and those with a high dependence on cars – will see a negative impact and emphasises the need for a targeted and well-planned emissions reduction policy and a transitional assistance policy to support a fair and just low-carbon transition for all.

The study, which gives a detailed picture of the effects a transition to fossil-free societies entails, is published in the scientific journal Energy Research & Social Science.

The study, produced by the Stockholm Environment Institute, underlines that a higher risk for adverse effects does not imply that these groups should avoid emissions reductions, as the alternative scenario is increasingly more severe. Damaging impacts of climate change will greatly affect the world’s most vulnerable, including within developed countries.

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