Empty promises: Some requirements for a successful implementation of decarbonisation strategies in developing countries

Leal Filho, Walter ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1241-5225, Ben Hassen, Tarek, Matandirotya, Newton and Ng, Artie (2025) Empty promises: Some requirements for a successful implementation of decarbonisation strategies in developing countries. Science of the Total Environment, 977. 179409. ISSN 0048-9697

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Abstract

Decarbonisation strategies are crucial for mitigating the adverse effects of climate change and achieving sustainable development. However, the successful implementation of these strategies in developing countries remains a significant challenge due to resource constraints, competing development priorities, and institutional barriers. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of decarbonisation efforts and impacts through an extensive review of existing research, reports, and case studies. The research includes a detailed examination of decarbonisation initiatives, complemented by case studies from seven industrialised (USA, EU27, Germany, Italy, France, Finland, and Australia) and six developing countries (China, Brazil, South Africa, India, Mexico, and Kenya). These case studies showcase practical efforts and illustrate current trends in decarbonisation. The findings underscore the importance of political will, financial resources, technological capacity, and social acceptance as critical requirements for the successful implementation of decarbonisation strategies in developing countries. The paper emphasises the need for international cooperation, capacity-building, and aligning decarbonisation goals with broader socio-economic objectives to ensure these strategies contribute meaningfully to sustainable development.