Dialogue and Mutual Learning towards a Low Carbon Society – Experiences from 10 Countries Across Europe

The newest solutions and developments for a low carbon society could be more easily implemented if mutual learning and exchange about sustainable ideas and solutions could take place, highlighting the benefit of cooperation for the transformation of the energy system. Societal dialogue can be a key for such exchange and learning to occur. A challenge is how to get substantial and inclusive involvement of all stakeholders, whose vested interests are often not aligned. The EC FP7 R&Dialogue project is exploring the potential of dialogue in tackling this challenge and in promoting innovative energy strategies. The project, which spans ten European countries, is conducting research to increase understanding of the different viewpoints and related interests, with the goal of merging them to facilitate the creation of a low-carbon society.