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New taskforce launched to accelerate progress towards an equitable Net Zero Future

6 May 2022, 12:24 UTC 2 min read

We’ve partnered with the Scottish Government to launch the Just Transition Taskforce – an initiative to accelerate progress towards an equitable Net Zero Future.

To date, eleven Under2 Coalition governments representing all global regions – North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa and Asia – have joined the Just Transition Taskforce.

Together they will push for greater collective and individual action on just transition (JT) issues.

Just Transition Taskforce title with strapline: Accelerating progress towards an equitable Net Zero Future. Under2 Coalition and Scottish Government logos in top left. Net Zero Futures graphic of wind turbines to right.

Climate inequity

Climate change is a universal threat, yet it is often regions in the Global South that experience the first and worst impacts.

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

Delivering a just transition

The Just Transition Taskforce will connect state and regional governments on JT issues and convene an initial group of governments dedicated to furthering JT action.

It will support global states and regions to understand the practical application of JT, and how to integrate it into broader climate action planning.

The approach and understanding of JT differs greatly by region and local contexts. We will focus on direct approaches to JT, related to jobs, low carbon investments and the impacts of decarbonisation. We will also consider indirect approaches, such as those more broadly related to justice and equity principles.

"The Scottish Government has established this Taskforce to make sure the principles of a just transition are built into our global journey to net zero. The Taskforce will be a platform for extensive peer-learning and policy support, and will be a crucial step in the delivery of our individual and collective climate ambitions. Through the Just Transition Taskforce states and regions will take a leading role in building a fairer, greener future for all".

Richard Lochhead, Just Transition Minister, Scottish Government

Building on Net Zero Futures

The Just Transition Taskforce will build on the success of Net Zero Futures - a project launched in 2021 by Scotland, Bloomberg Philanthropies and Climate Group. It’s worked 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.

The Just Transition Taskforce is a natural continuation of the engagement and peer learning fostered through Net Zero Futures.

Net Zero Futures (1)

Find out more about the project