Just Transition
The world has seen many transitions in the past, from automation to the decline or relocation of entire industries, leading to job losses and economic hardship. This has created a fear that future transitions will be similarly painful.
Low-carbon energy transitions are already happening in many countries, often due to economic factors or health concerns, but also supported and accelerated by climate change policies. Nevertheless, the actors involved, including governments, businesses, workers, and communities have a tendency to protect the status quo and keep carbon-intensive industries alive.
Early action on a just transition can minimize the negative impacts and maximize positive opportunities. The Paris Agreement on climate change includes just transition as an important principle. Just transition is not a fixed set of rules, but a vision and a process based on dialogue and an agenda shared by workers, industry, and governments that need to be negotiated and implemented in their geographical, political, cultural, and social contexts. It is implemented with a set of guiding principles, such as the International Labour Organization's guidelines for a just transition.
Articles
Putting Poverty Alleviation and Inequality Reduction at the Heart of the Energy Transition
As governments implement the ambitious policies needed to transform the energy system, they must also account for the resulting impacts on inequality and poverty.
Investing in Gas-Fired Power Would Likely be a ‘Costly Mistake’ for South Africa
There is no need for South Africa to invest in a gas-to-power sector at this time and pushing ahead with such plans could negatively impact the country’s economy and climate, according to a new report by the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) released today.
Countries Must Phase Out Oil and Gas Production—and Quickly
How fast do we need to phase out fossil fuels to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement and safeguard our planet's future? A new report suggests a quicker timeline than many governments are planning.
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