We need to work on building new systems that are good for everyone, not just a few. Just transition must actively address and transform current and historical social inequalities based on race, class, gender, immigration status and other forms of oppression. Just Transition fights for the recovery of capital and resources for the regeneration of the regions and economic sectors where these inequalities are most widespread. Building on this story, members of the Climate Justice Alliance, many of whom are rooted in the environmental justice movement, have adapted the definition of just transition to present a variety of strategies for the transition of entire communities to build prosperous economies that provide dignified, productive and environmentally sustainable livelihoods. democratic governance and ecological resilience. Just transition strategies were first developed by unions and environmental justice groups rooted in low-income communities of color who saw the need to phase out industries that harmed workers, the health of the community, and the planet. and at the same time, provide workers with fair ways to transition to other jobs. It was rooted in the fact that workers in alliance with fence and frontline communities defined a transition away from polluting industries. A just transition means an equitable distribution of the costs and benefits of climate action, ensuring that the effects of climate change disproportionately affect people living in poverty and exacerbate economic, gender and other social inequalities, including those resulting from discriminatory practices based on race and ethnic origin; The transition to carbon neutrality will have the greatest impact on workers in sectors, cities and regions that depend on carbon-intensive industries and manufacturing.
A just transition is designed to ensure that the essential benefits of a transition to a green economy are widely disseminated, while supporting those who will lose economically – be they countries, regions, industries, communities, workers or consumers. While a just transition is primarily based on environmental considerations, it is also shaped by other structural changes affecting labour markets, such as globalisation, labour-saving technologies and the shift to services. In many countries, a low-carbon energy transition is already underway, often due to economic factors or health problems, but also supported and accelerated by climate protection policy measures. Yet stakeholders, including governments, businesses, workers and communities, tend to protect the status quo and keep carbon-intensive industries alive. 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 raised fears that future transitions will be just as painful. The Just Transition and Equitable Climate Action Resource Centre presents snapshots of the actions countries, communities and businesses are taking to transform industries and economies in a fair and inclusive way.