We provide practical, evidence based pathways to zero carbon through transformative local, regional and global actions. Our vision is to create a global community that delivers transformative solutions for a healthier, fairer and more prosperous post-carbon society.

Significant progress is still needed to create a healthy, ‘post-carbon’ future, no longer dependent on burning fossil fuels and other unsustainable practices, where human societies are thriving within planetary boundaries. To achieve this goal, transformative actions must be implemented on a local, regional and global scale.

The Pathfinder Initiative aims to assess and synthesise lessons from the implementation of practical, evidence-based pathways to zero carbon societies support evidence-informed decision making based on real-world case studies and robust scientific evidence. Highlighting knowledge gaps and identifying how to address the challenges of implementation across diverse settings, these pathways will enable significant improvements to be achieved with minimal delay with the aim of accelerating progress  to a post-carbon society.

Funded by the Wellcome Trust and with support from the Oak Foundation, the Initiative is led by researchers at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM). The Lancet Pathfinder Commission will provide scientific oversight, where international experts across key decarbonisation sectors and disciplines will guide and inform the work for analysis.

The Initiative will also establish Champions to create a dedicated advocacy effort to effectively communicate findings and increase motivation for change. The findings will be published in The Lancet medical journal.

Pathfinder co-Chair Andy Haines was recently listed as no. 28 on Reuters list of the top 1000 most influential climate scientists in the world.

Pathfinder workflow infographics.