As an example, he cited the modernization of agriculture in poorer countries, which can help them adapt to climate change. At the same time, Gates calls on governments and investors to do more to promote innovation in low-carbon and affordable energy sources. In his view, these can ensure the development of poorer regions without dependence on fossil fuels. “We need to promote breakthroughs that will help the world achieve zero emissions,” he said.
The three pillars of the new strategy
According to Gates, there are three fundamental facts about climate that must change our approach. First, climate change is a serious problem, but it will not destroy civilization—people will be able to adapt and live good lives. Second, it is not right to measure progress solely by the temperature of the planet. And most importantly, if we want to protect people, we must first lift them out of poverty and improve their overall health.
The billionaire even gave an example of his new priorities: “If I had to choose between eradicating malaria and a temperature increase of one-tenth of a degree, I would let the temperature rise.”
Positive trends on the horizon
Gates also sees “encouraging trends in the energy sector.” According to him, the availability of affordable solar and wind energy, advanced batteries, and electric cars has improved dramatically over the past decade. Investments in clean energy have yielded more than expected. According to his calculations, global emissions have fallen by almost 40 percent compared to the original gloomy forecasts.
Although Gates acknowledged that the world is likely to warm by two to three degrees Celsius, which exceeds the ideal targets, he does not see this as the end of the world. Instead of panicking, he urges people to focus specifically on how they can adapt to the changes.
The money is flowing into other goals
The Microsoft founder's investment organization, the Breakthrough Energy Fund, has also changed its strategy. The company, which has invested more than $2 billion in clean energy since 2015, laid off dozens of employees working in climate policy and lobbying in March 2025. Now it focuses exclusively on promoting innovation and capital investment.
According to Gates, his stance is logical and clear: we cannot solve the climate crisis while billions of people live in poverty. The solution to climate change and other problems must be well thought out, fact-based, and pursue a single goal: to improve the quality of life for every human being, regardless of where they were born.
