Climate-justice academic speaks at Taiwan conference about just transition to net zero

Glasgow Caledonian’s leading climate-justice academic was in Taiwan to discuss the concept of a just transition to net zero.

Professor Tahseen Jafry, Director of the University’s Mary Robinson Centre for Climate Justice, presented a key-note address on what a fair and equitable transition meant at the 2023 Demo Day: Cities on the Path to Zero Conference, organised by the New Taipei City Government, Republic of China (Taiwan), which took place on Friday, August 18.

As the world shifts towards net-zero solutions, the conference gathered international experts to discuss future-focused ideas. Together, they engaged in a valuable global conversation about how to make cities more sustainable.

Professor Jafry said: “Our changing climate was evident, highlighted by July’s record high temperature of 17.08°C, which has been primarily driven by human activities. With global temperatures up 1.1°C since the industrial era, urgent emissions reduction is vital.

“The concept of a just transition involves a shift to a fair and sustainable low-carbon economy. To prevent exacerbating inequalities, collaboration is paramount. Inclusive planning and public involvement has to guide policies and actions for an equitable transition.

"Adopting the basic principles of cooperation, co-design, and citizen science as a foundation for an inclusive just transition holds the power to significantly boost well-being and economic prosperity. This approach ensures a sustainable path forward that leaves no one behind.”

While in Taiwan, Professor Jafry also met the Deputy Minister of the National Science and Technology Council and visited the Taiwan Institute of Economic Research to engage with NGOs regarding developing joint research on the climate justice aspects of a just transition.