Major report shows fairer world and climate stability can go hand in hand

A groundbreaking study from the World Inequality Lab offers an optimistic vision: we can tackle climate change while improving living standards for most people worldwide.

The Global Justice Report challenges the common assumption that environmental action means sacrifice. Instead, it shows how reducing working hours, closing the wealth gap, and investing in clean energy could work together to benefit over 99% of the world's population.

The model proposes reducing average annual working hours from 2,100 to 1,000 by 2100, giving people more time for family, education, and community. Nearly 90% of the world would see their incomes double, with monthly earnings converging toward £4,250 per person globally.

To fund the transition, the report suggests a Global Justice Fund financed by taxes on the wealthiest 1%. This would support climate investment, healthcare, and education, particularly in poorer countries.

While the authors acknowledge the plan requires major political will and social movements to overcome resistance, they argue the alternative — deepening inequality and climate breakdown — is far worse. The report demonstrates that the numbers can add up for a fairer, greener future.