Uploaded October 2025 | Updated September 2026, 15 hours ago
How does a country get on track to meet an ambitious 70% emissions reduction target that many thought was impossible? According to Lars Aagaard, Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities, Denmark, the answer lies in partnerships, political will, and a powerful, positive vision for the future.
In this clip speaking at Climate Week NYC, he explains that winning the climate battle requires a "positive narrative"—convincing citizens that a green future means better products, services, and living conditions. It's not about sacrifice, but about improvement.
Discover Denmark's successful three-pronged approach:
1. Ambitious Targets: Setting a 70% reduction target for 2030 (based on 1990 levels) created a clear goal.
2. Public-Private Partnerships: The government didn't dictate solutions. Instead, they invited 10 different private sectors—from finance to energy—to co-create the roadmap, sharing responsibility and sparking innovation.
3. A Brave Political Toolbox: Denmark implemented a carbon tax on industry and is the first country in the world to decide on a carbon tax for agricultural emissions. By investing in the sector before the tax is introduced, they help companies transform and innovate.
As Lars Aagaard states, "there is nothing like a tax that can spur innovation". This combination of a shared vision, collaboration, and bold policy has put Denmark on track to meet its climate goals.
How does a country get on track to meet an ambitious 70% emissions reduction target that many thought was impossible? According to Lars Aagaard, Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities, Denmark, the answer lies in partnerships, political will, and a powerful, positive vision for the future.
In this clip speaking at Climate Week NYC, he explains that winning the climate battle requires a "positive narrative"—convincing citizens that a green future means better products, services, and living conditions. It's not about sacrifice, but about improvement.
Discover Denmark's successful three-pronged approach:
1. Ambitious Targets: Setting a 70% reduction target for 2030 (based on 1990 levels) created a clear goal.
2. Public-Private Partnerships: The government didn't dictate solutions. Instead, they invited 10 different private sectors—from finance to energy—to co-create the roadmap, sharing responsibility and sparking innovation.
3. A Brave Political Toolbox: Denmark implemented a carbon tax on industry and is the first country in the world to decide on a carbon tax for agricultural emissions. By investing in the sector before the tax is introduced, they help companies transform and innovate.
As Lars Aagaard states, "there is nothing like a tax that can spur innovation". This combination of a shared vision, collaboration, and bold policy has put Denmark on track to meet its climate goals.
