Structural limitations of the decarbonization state

Ulrich Brand (), Daniel Hausknost, Alina Brad, Gabriel Eyselein, Mathias Krams, Danyal Maneka, Melanie Pichler and Etienne Schneider
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Ulrich Brand: University of Vienna
Daniel Hausknost: WU Vienna University of Economics and Business
Alina Brad: University of Vienna
Gabriel Eyselein: University of Vienna
Mathias Krams: Goethe University
Danyal Maneka: BOKU University
Melanie Pichler: BOKU University
Etienne Schneider: University of Vienna

Nature Climate Change, 2025, vol. 15, issue 9, 927-934

Abstract: Abstract To achieve net-zero climate targets, many states have ramped up ambitions to decarbonize their economies. Despite these aspirations, the emerging decarbonization state faces a serious implementation gap between ambitious targets and actual policies, intensified by climate backsliding pressure. We argue that a deeper understanding of the prevalent model of the liberal capitalist state and its basic functions (that is, ensuring economic growth, maintaining legitimacy and providing security) can help to explain this gap. We conceptualize the nascent decarbonization state as increasingly aiming to shift from fossil fuels towards renewable energy rather than merely improving existing technologies. This transformation of the state, however, challenges basic functions of the underlying liberal capitalist state model. Our analysis implies analytical and normative avenues for future research.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1038/s41558-025-02394-y

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