Just Transition
Energy transitions are about people: the ones who make the decisions and the ones affected by those decisions. A "just transition" approach ensures that the affected people are considered by those making decisions.
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
Why Gender Inclusion Must Drive the Just Energy Transition
As the global clean energy transition gains momentum, one principle becomes increasingly clear: we cannot talk about equity without addressing gender. And yet, for many women in South Africa, the energy transition feels divorced from their everyday realities.
How State-Owned Power Companies Are Impacting the Energy Transition in Emerging Economies
State-owned power companies control about half of the world's power production capacity and, in many countries, hold the keys to ensuring energy security and a successful energy transition.
Petrobras Oil Rush a Bad Bet for Brazil, Report Shows
Brazil’s plans to expand oil and gas production pose significant economic risks with 85% of state-owned company Petrobras’ planned extraction unprofitable under a 1.5°C climate scenario.
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