Recommended citation

Breucker, F. & Defard, C. 2023. “Fundamental decarbonisation through sufficiency by lifestyle changes“, Report, Full-fill Project, September.

This report analyses the role of policies and governance measures in the diffusion of sufficiency lifestyles at the macro level . Looking at 16 case studies of national sufficiency policies that have been implemented or debated across Denmark, France, Germany, Italy and Latvia this report identifies key barriers and enablers in the implementation of these policies. A comparative analysis between the policies sheds light on the factors that drive and inhibit successful implementation of sufficiency policies taking into account the varying national contexts and social acceptabi lity of the policies. Enablers of sufficiency policies that are identified include a coherent policy mix with appropriate supporting measures, affordable and attractive alternatives and enabling infrastructure, appropriate financing, stakeholder engagement , successful piloting, education and positive communication with a focus on co benefits of the sufficiency measure. Barriers to sufficiency policy implementation, on the other hand, include top down approaches that do n o t involve local governments, citizen s, or civil society organisations, disinformation as well as lobbying by influential players on top of the lack of the listed enabling factors. It is concluded that to mainstream sufficiency practices, behaviour change needs to be made easy. Low carbon die ts, sufficient mobility and housing practices require adapted infrastructures and policies to have a large impact. The adoption of appropriate targets and instruments requires political will at the national and local levels. It is suggested that pilots sho uld be conducted and assessed, the policy debate should be opened to all stakeholders, adequate support should be given and the communication should focus on multiple benefits taking into account affordability as a key enabler. Finally, further independent research is needed on the link between the perception of sufficiency measures and socio demographic factors to facilitate a better understanding of enabling factors for various parts of the population and consequently allow for a more effective sufficienc y policy design that is met with acceptance by citizens.