Glossary
Just transition
"Just transition" is a principle, strategy, and process to manage the complex societal implications and economic shift from a high-carbon economy to a low-carbon economy in a manner that is both fair and inclusive. Originating from the labor movement, it is a human-centered approach that emphasizes job creation, social protection, and skills development to alleviate the potential social hardship that often arises in the industrial transition towards a sustainable economy.
As the world collectively moves towards decarbonization and low-carbon technologies to combat climate change, energy-intensive and carbon-heavy industries are faced with the reality of a radical transformation. This transformative approach, known as the “Just transition,” aims to ensure that this shift doesn’t perpetuate past injustices or create new ones. It acknowledges the inevitable changes facing workers, communities, and economies and seeks to ensure they are not left behind in this transition.
This principle stresses that a successful transition towards zero-carbon must be based on social dialogue – an open conversation between all stakeholders, including governments, workers, employers, and communities to plan, implement, and collectively govern the process. It thereby focuses on balancing the economic benefits of renewable technologies with a commitment to social justice.
Conceptually, a “Just transition” is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Its operationalization depends on regional and national contexts and involves tailored strategies to protect the welfare of all social groups, particularly those most vulnerable. It might involve elements such as vocational training for renewable energy jobs, financial aid for affected workers, or regulations to protect local economies.
In summary, the process of a “Just transition” enriches the approach to a low-carbon economy by promising to leave no one behind. It redefines economic progress to incorporate principles of justice, introducing an ethical aspect into the equation of environmental conservation. As such, it represents a bridge between the challenges of climate change and human rights, making a robust case for the intersectionality of environmental and social justice.