How would you make rapid climate improvements without sacrificing industry and finance?

The short answer to your question is called ‘just transition.’ It is the idea that we can transform our societies to stop relying on fossil fuels responsible for climate change (coal and oil, for example) and create alternatives that are fair, so that no one is left out.

There is a common idea that polluting industries are necessary for our economy to work. Well, this is not true, quite the contrary! Transforming our societies, so that they are more sustainable (or environmentally friendly), could create jobs and improve our quality of life. Investing in renewable energy (like wind and solar energy) and sustainable industries (like public transportation or eco-friendly housing), can help to create new jobs, while fighting against climate change.

Here is an example. When a coal power plant closes, many workers lose their jobs, and this can have a serious impact on the local community and economy. Therefore, it is important to make sure that these people are given new job opportunities (through training, etc) in clean energy sectors, for instance. A key for a successful ‘just transition’ is to ensure that all the people concerned work together to decide what they want the new society to look like.