Principles for Just Transitions in Extractives and Agriculture: Shaping energy and food systems that work for women, communities and the climate
Efforts to address the climate emergency and limit global warming require fundamental and rapid change in our energy and food systems. Taken together, the energy and food sectors are the basis of livelihood and wellbeing for much of the planet. This means that it is critical that the transition to greener, more resilient systems is done with great care, to ensure – and not undermine – social justice.
When creating the shift towards a climate-safe future, just transitions must be shaped through inclusive processes and comprehensive planning and policy frameworks that address the needs of workers, farmers, women and communities. In this way, they can help communities concerned that climate policies may lead to loss of jobs and livelihoods, to shape positive futures, and to become advocates for climate action.
ActionAid has developed a set of Principles for Just Transitions in Extractives and Agriculture, to help shape fair climate futures in our energy and food systems.
The term “Just Transition” does not only describe WHAT the new system will look like, but also HOW that transformation should be carried out.
Just transitions must:
• Address – and not exacerbate – inequalities
• Transform systems to work for people, nature and the climate
• Ensure inclusiveness and participation
• Develop comprehensive plans and policy frameworks.
