Just Transition Taskforce

Accelerating progress towards an equitable Net Zero Future.

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Under2 Coalition logo in colour on left. Scottish Government logo in blue and white on right.

About

The Just Transition Taskforce is a partnership between the Scottish Government and Climate Group, as Secretariat of the Under2 Coalition.

The initiative is building on the success of the Net Zero Futures project and accelerating progress towards an equitable, low carbon economy.

It's providing a platform to guide government action on just transition issues and has established a Just Transition Taskforce made up of global states and regions. Together they're identifying opportunities for greater collective and individual action.

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Just Transition Taskforce

The taskforce includes the following Under2 Coalition members: 

  • California (United States)
  • Gauteng (South Africa)
  • Isle of Man (United Kingdom)
  • Maharashtra (India)
  • Mato Grosso (Brazil)
  • North Bank Region (The Gambia)
  • Québec (Canada)
  • Scotland (United Kingdom) 
  • Wales (United Kingdom)
  • Washington (United States)
  • Western Cape (South Africa)

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Just Transition Taskforce - internal analysis

Our internal analysis document includes: 

  • background research on state and regional just transition perspectives - what we reviewed and what we learnt
  • outputs of our scoping activities with states and regions
  • an introduction to members of the Just Transition Taskforce and an outline of their key priorities
  • a list of next steps for the Just Transition Taskforce

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The need for a just transition

The Paris Agreement recognises “the imperatives of a just transition” as we reduce emissions.

Climate change is a universal threat. Yet, it's regions in the Global South – often the home of the world’s most disadvantaged communities – that experience the first and worst impacts.

As the speed and scale of climate action increases, it's vital that we deliver an equitable low carbon transition. One that advances global prosperity and long-term sustainability, without exacerbating existing inequalities.

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Supporting states and regions

The approach and understanding of a just transition differs greatly by region and local contexts. We're supporting global states and regions to understand the practical application of a just transition, as well as how to integrate it into broader climate action planning.

Therefore, we're focusing on direct approaches to a just transition, related to jobs, low carbon investments and the impacts of decarbonisation, as well indirect approaches, such as those more broadly related to justice and equity principles.

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Resources

The Scottish Government’s Just Transition Commission provides practical independent advice to Ministers on how to maximise the economy and social benefits of decarbonising Scotland, whilst managing the risks and challenges.

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Building on Net Zero Futures

The Just Transition Taskforce is building on the success of Net Zero Futures - a project launched in 2021 by Scotland, Bloomberg Philanthropies and Climate Group, which was designed to mobilise state and regional action towards a net zero future.

To date, over 80 state and regional governments have been involved in peer learning and knowledge sharing through Net Zero Futures, supporting net zero planning and target setting.

To find out more, contact

Faryal Gohar, Project Manager, Under2 Coalition