The post Just Transition Conference: We must adopt a public pathway approach to drive a swift transition to a low-carbon economy appeared first on AIDC | Alternative Information & Development Centre.
by AIDC
Climate change is a pressing issue that requires immediate action. To address this challenge, we need to put forward a public pathway approach towards driving to a transition to a low-carbon economy. This approach can overcome deep socio-economic inequalities and create an economy that meets the needs of people and the environment.
The planet is warming at an alarming rate, and it is clear that something needs to be done urgently to address the issue of climate change. This is why, the Alternative Information and Development Centre (AIDC) and the Trade Unions for Energy Democracy (TUED) are teaming up with the National Labour and Economic Development Institute (Naledi) to convene a 3-day Just Transition conference. The conference will focus on current debates on how best to decarbonize energy systems, as a key pillar for dealing with the accelerating climate crisis and transitioning to a low-carbon economy. Our concern is with forging a comprehensive just transition that contributes to overcoming mass unemployment and unparalleled levels of inequality. The conference will be attended by over 70 delegates from the labour movements, social movements, climate justice activists, civil society organisations and progressive academics and will be held at the DoubleTree Hotel in Upper Eastside, Salt River, Cape Town from December 10-12, 2023.
Many people recognise the need for action, but there is a deep divide between those who believe that the transition to a low-carbon economy should be driven by market forces and those who believe that a more public pathway approach is necessary.
While some argue that a market-driven approach is the best way to reduce carbon emissions, it is clear that this approach would only deepen existing socio-economic inequalities. A public pathway approach, on the other hand, prioritizes the needs of people and the environment over the interests of corporations. By investing in public infrastructure, creating green jobs, and prioritizing the needs of marginalized communities, we can create a low-carbon economy that works for everyone.
The market-driven approach argues that the best way to reduce carbon emissions is to let the market work its magic. However, for us, who advocate for a public pathway approach, we believe that this approach would only deepen existing socio-economic inequalities. We believe that a more equitable approach is needed, one that would prioritize the needs of people and the environment over the interests of corporations.
By working together and putting the needs of the planet and its people first, we can overcome the challenge of climate change and create a better world for all. Let us take action now and embrace a public pathway approach towards a low-carbon economy.
Here are some of the topics that will be discussed:
- Is the Minerals-Energy Complex Going Green? Decarbonization and South Africa’s Political Economy
- Pitfalls of the for-profit energy model globally and the need for a public pathway for a just transition to a low-carbon economy
- Is community-owned renewable energy the future?
- The risk of JETP as a model for climate finance?
- The struggle for a just transition from below-resisting austerity and privatisation
To RSVP or for media queries contact: Busi Mtabane at 083 329 7844 or busi@aidc.org.za
Download the full programme below.
