{"id":23956,"date":"2024-04-09T12:00:26","date_gmt":"2024-04-09T17:00:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.edf.org\/climate411\/?p=23956"},"modified":"2024-04-16T09:39:07","modified_gmt":"2024-04-16T14:39:07","slug":"charting-the-path-to-equity-unveiling-new-just-transition-and-safeguards-framework","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.edf.org\/climate411\/2024\/04\/09\/charting-the-path-to-equity-unveiling-new-just-transition-and-safeguards-framework\/","title":{"rendered":"Charting the path to equity: unveiling new Just Transition and Safeguards Framework"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Reskilling and training workers for a clean energy future. Photo: Robert Nickelsberg\/Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

By <\/span>Mandy <\/span>Rambharos<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>Vice President, <\/span>Global Climate Cooperation <\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

As the world moves towards greener, low-carbon futures, it’s imperative that no one is left behind \u2013 including those working in fossil fuel industries and the communities they support.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

A new report from Environmental Defense Fund, \u2018Just Transition and Safeguards Framework<\/a><\/strong>\u2019<\/strong> offers a roadmap for countries and energy companies alike to successfully navigate the complexities of transitioning to clean energy while ensuring fairness and equity at every step of the way.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Guidance from this framework outlines how to empower local stakeholders \u2013 from frontline communities to Indigenous Peoples \u2013 ensuring everyone has a seat at the table and a fair share in the benefits of this monumental shift.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The concept of a \u2018just transition\u2019 isn\u2019t new by any means. It was first developed by North American trade unions and environmental justice advocates and has since become a global call to action. As this big idea \u2013 which is simultaneously inspiring, ambiguous, and vast in scope \u2013 spreads across the world, it must adapt to local challenges, economic realities, and social norms.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

While a just transition will (and should) look different from West Virginia to South Africa, EDF\u2019s framework aims to help decision-makers understand the principles that should be core to every just transition plan \u2013 removing the ambiguity and providing clear waypoints toward true climate justice.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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What is a Just Energy Transition (JET)?<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span> <\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Over the last few years, the focus of the just transition has been on the energy sector, largely\u00a0<\/span>since this sector emits the most greenhouse gases globally. Embarking on a just energy transition (JET) isn’t just about swapping fossil fuels for renewables \u2013 it’s about fairness and equity. Picture a world where communities hit hardest by climate change, and those reliant on carbon-heavy industries, are at the forefront of change and resilience. It’s a phased shift, not an abrupt goodbye to fossil fuels, ensuring no one suffers from sudden job losses without recourse.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

JET charts a course where voices of all stakeholders are heard, shaping climate solutions together toward a low-carbon economy where everyone can thrive. It’s not just a transition \u2013 it’s a commitment to forging a future where fairness powers progress.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Key safeguards needed for a JET<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

Social safeguards are at the core of inclusivity within a just energy transition. These safeguards, crucial for the well-being of the environment and communities during the transition, are propelled by a myriad of factors, including:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n