Research for the targets

At the UTS Institute for Sustainable Futures (ISF), researchers are working to help shape the transition – ensuring that strategies are not only ambitious, but also practical, equitable, and resilient.

Leading up to COP30, ISF has identified six priority research areas to support the global transition to net zero: 

1. Building capacity for the economic transition 
   ISF is advancing sustainable finance to support the shift toward a low-carbon, resilient economy. Initiatives include climate finance training, small business support tools, and resources for new climate disclosure rules. 
2. Supporting and accelerating the energy transition 
   As Australia rapidly moves toward renewable energy, ISF is focused on ensuring the development of a sufficiently large and skilled workforce to support this transformation. 
3. Guiding decarbonisation 
   ISF’s climate experts work with countries and industries to plan equitable and practical pathways to net zero. Through projects like the One Earth Climate Model (OECM), ISF outlines science-based strategies for reducing emissions across sectors, with a strong emphasis on equity and 100% renewable energy. 
4. Systems transformation and industry collaboration 
   ISF promotes integrated approaches that enable transformative change rather than incremental progress. By activating multiple sectors ISF supports climate solutions through partnerships such as Climate-KIC and other collaborative projects. 
5. Partnering with the Asia-Pacific 
   Safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services are fundamental for public health and wellbeing. ISF research in the Asia-Pacific region builds capacity to deliver WASH services that are climate-resilient and inclusive. 
6. The circular economy and the climate 
   ISF is working with Circular Australia to develop strategies that align climate, nature, and sustainability goals. This approach supports Australia’s climate and biodiversity objectives, helping to protect natural ecosystems while unlocking new opportunities for climate action.

Professor Stuart White, ISF Director, will be attending in COP30 in Brazil this November. He’ll be participating in a range of events to showcase ISF’s work. 
 
“This will be my first time attending a COP, and I’m looking forward to being a small part of a big deal”, says Professor White. “I hope to create new collaboration opportunities and contribute to nudging the discussions in the direction that we need to achieve the 1.5°C goal that the climate science demands." 
 
“Matt Kean will also be there as Chair of the Climate Change Authority, and in the hope of playing a key role in COP31 if it comes to Australia." 
 
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