Just Transitions: Promise and Contestation

The Just Transition Element examines the dynamics of the world political economy over the last several decades and offers an overview of the varieties of just transitions based on an analytical scheme that focuses on their breadth, depth, and ambition. It emphasizes the importance of power, inequality, and injustice in understanding and comparing just transitions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 18 May 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Rewritten text:
The Earth System Governance (ESG) research encompasses a wide range of critical dimensions, including sustainability transformations, inequality, power, and justice. This Element specifically aims to examine the role of just transition within the dynamics of the global political economy over the past several decades. By adopting an analytical framework that emphasizes the breadth (coverage), depth (social and ecological priorities), and ambition of just transitions, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the diverse forms these transitions can take.

The central focus on breadth, depth, and ambition revolves around power, inequality, and injustice, providing a framework for analyzing and comparing just transitions as a vital prerequisite for their full interpretation. This approach enables us to delve into the complex interplay between these factors and their impact on societies and ecosystems.

Sustainability transformations are a fundamental aspect of just transitions. They involve transitioning towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly economic, social, and political systems that prioritize the well-being of present and future generations. This requires a shift towards renewable energy sources, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, the promotion of social equity, and the protection of natural resources.

Inequality is another critical dimension of just transitions. It refers to the unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and benefits within societies and across different regions of the world. Just transitions aim to address these inequalities by promoting social inclusion, economic empowerment, and the reduction of social and economic disparities.

Power is a central factor in shaping just transitions. It encompasses the political, economic, and social institutions that govern societies and their ability to make decisions and implement policies that affect the lives of individuals and communities. Just transitions require the involvement of all stakeholders, including governments, businesses, civil society society, and grassroots organizations, in decision-making processes to ensure that the interests of marginalized and vulnerable groups are taken into account.

Justice is another essential aspect of just transitions. It refers to the fair and equitable treatment of all individuals and groups, regardless of their race, gender, ethnicity, religion, or social status. Just transitions aim to promote social justice by addressing systemic inequalities, promoting human rights, and ensuring that the benefits of sustainable development are shared by all.

In conclusion, the Earth System Governance research emphasizes the importance of just transition within the dynamics of the global political economy. By focusing on the breadth, depth, and ambition of just transitions, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the diverse forms these transitions can take and the factors that shape them. This approach enables us to develop effective strategies and policies to promote sustainable development, reduce inequality, and ensure justice for all individuals and groups.

Weight: 160g
Dimension: 151 x 230 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108947008