Mainstreaming 1.5° Lifestyles: Building sustained security through climate action

Europe stands at a crossroads. Political pressure to delay or dilute environmental measures is steadily eroding the ambitious trajectory of the European Green Deal. Policymakers are increasingly shifting their focus toward short-term priorities such as boosting industrial competitiveness and economic growth as well as the expansion of defence capacities. Recent initiatives such as the Clean Industrial Deal, proposals to shift research towards military applications, and the emphasis on a competitive bioeconomy all signal this shift. These priorities are not without merit. Economic and military security are important components of a resilient Europe. Yet, they must not come at the expense of climate ambition - which not only underpins long-term resilience but also brings significant economic benefits, while the costs of inaction are far greater. This is a moment for political clarity and courage. Climate change is not a distant threat—it is already destabilizing livelihoods and communities across Europe and beyond. A realistic vision of security must therefore go beyond growth and defence. It must include climate resilience, social justice, and the capacity to live well within planetary boundaries. This is the very foundation of lasting peace and democratic resilience. The EU 1.5° LIFESTYLES research (project) shows that systemic transformation is not only necessary but also widely supported. Citizens are ready and stakeholders demand for ambitious change—if political leadership dares to support them on that route. Structural reforms, lifestyle shifts, and technological innovation must be pursued together. The time for compromise is over; the window for action is closing. This policy brief outlines the steps policymakers must take to fulfill their responsibility—not only to today’s voters, but to future generations.