Future population size, which new research suggests has been overestimated, is not the primary factor behind planetary problems like climate change. Instead, the world's wealthiest are producing the largest material footprint. By Beniamino Callegari and Per Espen Stoknes

Malaysia seeks to ensure that the poor benefit from fuel subsidies instead of the rich, but rationalisation can also contribute towards sustainability. Savings from removing fuel subsidies can be used to develop low-carbon alternatives. By Tham Siew Yean and Kevin Zhang

It can provide a wider choice of green products such as energy saving appliances, e-vehicles, and sustainable building materials. Government departments can be mandated to purchase such products, and the aggregation of demand can nudge manufacturers to reduce the carbon footprint of their products and seek green certification. By Jagan Shah

Last year’s farmer protests in New Zealand, for example, showed how abruptly climate policies can be disrupted when workers and communities feel left out. Policymakers and corporate leaders need to get in front of the issue now. By Robin Willoughby and Nico Muzi