The Breakthrough Effect: How to Trigger a Cascade of Tipping Points to Accelerate the Net Zero Transition

This report analyzes actionable “tipping points” within global energy systems (fertilizer, shipping, power, etc.) that could produce a cascade of emissions reductions. The technology adoption needed to reach these positive tipping points is dependent on cost-effectiveness, attractiveness, and accessibility, but if these barriers are overcome, it could result in massive, self-reinforcing environmental improvements. The authors present three “super-leverage points,” or “opportunities for actions that have relatively low cost or difficulty, and a relatively high chance of catalysing a tipping cascade” within that particular sector and in an additional interacting sector: 1. Mandating zero-emissions vehicles 2. Mandating green ammonia use in fertilizer production, and 3. Redirecting public procurement to promote the uptake of alternative proteins.