By Adedapo Adesanya
The United Nations has advised countries, including Nigeria, to shift to a low-carbon economy in order to unlock new jobs and opportunities, but warned it must be done in a way that is as socially and economically fair as possible for everyone.
This is according to on-the-ground case studies contained in a new report from UN Climate Change.
The report, which was prepared by the Katowice Committee of Experts on the Impacts of the Implementation of Response, compiles some of the best practices from different countries that are already implementing just transition and economic diversification strategies.
The concept of a “just transition” recognises that a shift to a more sustainable economy can have significant impacts on workers and communities that are currently dependent on fossil fuels.
A just transition means transforming the economy and economic system in a way that is as fair and inclusive as possible to everyone concerned, creating decent work opportunities and leaving no one behind.
The report underscores that there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach when it comes to just transition. Just transition strategies must be tailored to each individual country.
In Nigeria, for example, just transition needs to be seen through the lens of adapting to the impacts of climate change.
Roughly 70 per cent of Nigerians work in farming or fishing. But the country is facing steep declines in agricultural productivity due to extreme weather events and more frequent and severe droughts. There is widespread recognition that new jobs and methods of production are needed.
In 2018, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) launched a joint project with Friends of the Earth Nigeria on just transition in two sectors – agriculture and petroleum.
The project had two goals: build a shared understanding and political agenda between Nigerian trade unions, civil society and communities regarding what a just transition would look like for these two sectors in Nigeria; and develop models and best practices for other unions.
The report also finds that including training and skill-development initiatives in national climate action plans and electricity, roadmaps can create equitable and long-lasting energy policies.
It highlights the Marshall Islands’ Island Eco initiative, which provides technical training to women to assemble, install, operate, and maintain solar-powered equipment, helping the country achieve its goal of 100 per cent renewable energy by 2050.
The initiative is also contributing to the creation of decent work conditions in the country.
“To ensure no one is left behind, countries need just transition and economic diversification policies that are comprehensive, inclusive, and based on social dialogue and stakeholder engagement,” said Mr James Grabert, Director of Mitigation at UN Climate Change.
“These policies need to be integrated into national climate action plans, as well as in national adaptation plans, to avoid exacerbating inequality,” he added.
