Introduction
Climate change mitigation is one of the most practical and applied topics in IB Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS). For the 2026 first assessment, students must understand not only the science of climate change but also the strategies societies use to reduce its impacts.
Mitigation strategies are exam favorites because they demand critical evaluation—students must balance environmental, economic, and social factors. To prepare effectively, you’ll need to know the main strategies, their strengths and weaknesses, and real-world case studies.
Quick Start Checklist for ESS Students
When revising climate change mitigation, make sure you can:
- Define mitigation (reducing greenhouse gas emissions at the source).
- Distinguish between mitigation and adaptation.
- Explain key strategies (renewables, reforestation, efficiency, policies).
- Apply case studies of successful or failed strategies.
- Evaluate effectiveness and sustainability.
What Is Mitigation in ESS?
- Mitigation = actions taken to reduce the causes of climate change (greenhouse gas emissions).
- Adaptation = actions taken to cope with the effects of climate change.
Exams often test this distinction, so always define both clearly.
Key Mitigation Strategies
1. Renewable Energy Transition
- Solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal.
- reduces CO₂ emissions, creates green jobs.
