Just transition: a conflict transformation approach

Damian McIlroy*, Seán Brennan, John Barry

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

3 Citations (Scopus)
323 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Responding to the planetary crisis requires just energy transitions. While there is much research and public and policy related dicussion on the just transition, an underappreciated and acknowledged element is that moving to a low carbon or post-carbon economy and society means the end of the fossil fuel energy system. This throws up a host of complex issues ranging from the role of the state and issues of democratic voice and procedure. Central to all of these the recognition of conflict and conflict transformation as characterising any just low carbon energy transition. While the potential for a just transition can lead to a net benefit for society as a whole, any transition will inevitably produce ‘winners’ and ‘losers’. The ‘losers’, particularly affected workers and communities, will have to be accommodated if the transition is to be considered just. The aim of this chapter is to suggest that understanding and navigating a just transition from carbon energy can benefit from the lessons, insights and real-world experiences of conflict transformation and peacebuilding.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationHandbook of Critical Environmental Politics
EditorsLuigi Pellizzoni, Emanuele Leonard , Viviana Asara
PublisherEdward Elgar Publishing Ltd
Chapter30
Pages416-430
Number of pages15
ISBN (Electronic)9781839100673
ISBN (Print)9781839100666
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 25 Oct 2022

Publication series

NameElgar Handbooks in Energy, the Environment and Climate Change

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Environmental Science

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Just transition: a conflict transformation approach'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this