Resource-efficient pathways towards greenhouse-gas-neutrality : executive summary of the RESCUE-Study / authors: Jens Günther, Harry Lehmann, Philip Nuss und Katja Purr ; publisher: German Environment Agency (Umweltbundesamt) ; editor: Section V1.2 “Strategies and Scenarios for Climate and Energy”, Katja Purr

Abstract

The RESCUE project describes in six scenarios possible development paths towards a resource-efficient and greenhouse-gas (GHG) neutral Germany. For this, assumptions related to the roll-out of renewable energy technologies, the level of ambition for reaching GHG-neutrality, the magnitude of materials- and energy-efficiency, and the implementation of sustainable life-styles are varied. Until 2050, GHG-emissions can be reduced by 95 percent to 97 percent compared to 1990-levels. Net zero emissions can be achieved through sustainable agriculture and forestry management. Primary raw materials consumption is reduced by 56 percent to 70 percent (however, an increased demand for certain raw materials (e. g., metals) is also observed). This executive summary presents the central results of this project.