The energy sector is the main source of greenhouse gases, particularly in the form of CO2 produced by the burning of coal, oil and gas – the most recent IPCC report has once again underlined the urgency to act here. Accordingly, personal energy footprints are related to certain consumption patterns and wealth.

This raises questions of liability, but also whether and how the unequal distribution of wealth is in itself a major cause of climate catastrophe. On the one hand, the concept of the "ecological footprint" is suitable to show individual responsibility and personal contribution to climate change. At the same time, it carries the risk of shifting the focus from the main polluters to the average or even low-income sections of society, by blaming individuals.

We talk to our guest Dr Marta Baltruszewicz about the the link between energy consumption patterns and well-being. Marta Baltruszewicz has conducted research at the University of Leeds focusing on these areas. What are the links between consumption, shopping, travel, food, housing, heating and climate change on the one hand and the distribution of wealth on the other? We will also discuss with her whether people with more money would be able to invest in climate-friendly technologies such as renewable energies - why is this not happening faster? Do we need new paradigms like sufficiency for climate justice?