The European Environment Agency (EEA) published, on Tuesday 5 November, an analysis of the key issues for ensuring fairness as Europe progresses towards the objectives of the European Green Deal. It sets out the lessons to be learned for decision-makers wishing to ensure a just green transition.
The report details three dimensions of justice that need to be integrated into green policies: - distributive justice, which ensures that costs and benefits are fairly distributed; - procedural justice, guaranteeing the participation of all in decision-making, and; - recognition justice, respecting the values and needs of local communities.
The EU is mobilising specific funds to support vulnerable populations and regions. The ‘Just Transition Mechanism’ will allocate €55 billion over the period 2021-2027, targeting the areas most affected by the transition, such as regions dependent on fossil fuels.
In addition, the ‘Social Climate Fund’, financed by revenue from the ‘ETS 2’ system of greenhouse gas emission quotas, will be activated between 2026 and 2032 to alleviate the effects of energy poverty and support energy renovation projects.
The EEA recommends that decision-makers adopt an integrated approach, combining social and environmental policies, with particular attention to local circumstances. The report stresses the importance of ongoing monitoring and adjustments to ensure that the transition remains fair and tailored to the needs of all European citizens.
To read the report: https://aeur.eu/f/e7l (Original version in French by Nithya Paquiry)