2023
Simone d'Antonio, Daniela Patti, Levente Polyak, and others
The report titled "Exploring the Just Transition: Europe," authored by experts from EUTROPIAN and C40 Cities, delves into the critical concept of just transition as it applies to various European contexts. With climate change and social inequality at the forefront of discussions, this report underscores the urgency of implementing transition strategies that not only address environmental concerns but also ensure equitable opportunities for all. Key findings highlight that just transition is gaining traction across Europe, spurred by initiatives like the European Green Deal and the Just Transition Mechanism. The report outlines several pivotal themes, including the transition of coal regions away from fossil fuels, the need for workforce reskilling for green jobs, and the importance of community leadership in driving local change. These strategies aim to mitigate territorial inequalities and foster inclusive economic growth. Moreover, the report emphasizes the essential role of cities in shaping just transition processes, as they are often the most impacted by environmental policies. Cities are encouraged to engage actively with national governments and local stakeholders to facilitate effective dialogues and collaborative policy design. Recommended actions include enhancing interdepartmental coordination and advocating for fair allocation of resources at the EU level. In conclusion, the report asserts that successful implementation of just transition strategies at the local level is vital for restoring trust between governments and communities. By aligning local actions with broader regional and national strategies, Europe can pave the way for a sustainable and equitable economic future.
This report, titled "Exploring the just transition: Europe," was authored by Simone d'Antonio, Daniela Patti, and Levente Polyak from EUTROPIAN, along with Jazmin Burgess and Krisztina Campbell from C40 Cities. It provides an overview of just transition concepts, themes, opportunities and challenges in Europe.
Key findings include:
- Just transition is increasingly relevant in Europe, addressed by various institutions, policies and initiatives like the European Green Deal and Just Transition Mechanism.
- Key themes include:
- Coal regions and cities transitioning away from fossil fuels
- Industrial sector transformation
- Reskilling/upskilling workers for green jobs
- Regional transformation and reducing territorial inequality
- Ensuring fair working conditions and equitable opportunities
- Promoting community leadership and ownership
- Several European countries have developed national strategies on just transition, including Germany, Scotland, France and Ukraine.
- Cities play a crucial role in shaping just transition processes, as they experience the direct impacts and can engage local stakeholders.
- Recommended actions for cities include:
- Engaging with national governments on just transition planning
- Facilitating multi-stakeholder dialogue at the city level
- Improving interdepartmental coordination
- Collaboratively designing reskilling/upskilling policies
- Advocating for inclusive allocation of support at the EU level
- Getting involved in European networks and partnerships
- Just transition strategies can help restore trust between local governments and communities while reducing social and territorial inequalities in Europe.
The report emphasizes that effective implementation of just transition at the local level, aligned with regional and national strategies, is crucial for the future of work and long-term economic development in many European regions and cities.