Exploring the just transition in Europe

This report, titled "Exploring the Just Transition in Europe," was created by authors Simone d'Antonio, Daniela Patti, and Levente Polyak from EUTROPIAN, along with Jazmin Burgess and Krisztina Campbell from C40 Cities. The report was uploaded to the database on July 4, 2023, and is publicly accessible through the URL: https://cooperativecity.org/product/exploring-the-just-transition-europe/. The document provides a comprehensive overview of the just transition concepts, themes, opportunities, and challenges within the European context.

The report highlights that the concept of a just transition is becoming increasingly relevant across Europe, spurred by various institutions, policies, and initiatives. Notably, the European Green Deal and the Just Transition Mechanism are pivotal frameworks guiding this transition. These initiatives aim to address environmental sustainability while ensuring that social equity is not compromised during the transition to a greener economy.

Several key themes are outlined in the report, including: - The transition of coal regions and cities moving away from fossil fuels. - Transformation within the industrial sector, shifting towards more sustainable practices. - The necessity for reskilling and upskilling workers to prepare them for green jobs, which are essential for a sustainable economy. - Regional transformation efforts aimed at reducing territorial inequalities across Europe. - The importance of ensuring fair working conditions and equitable opportunities for all workers. - The promotion of community leadership and ownership in the transition process.

The report indicates that several European countries, including Germany, Scotland, France, and Ukraine, have developed national strategies focused on just transitions. These strategies are vital for coordinating efforts at the national level while addressing local needs and aspirations.

Cities are identified as crucial players in the just transition processes. They face the direct impacts of these transitions and have the capacity to engage local stakeholders effectively. The report emphasizes the importance of cities in shaping their own transition paths and highlights that local governance can be a powerful force for change.

To facilitate a successful just transition, the report recommends several actions for cities, including: - Engaging with national governments on just transition planning to align local and national efforts. - Facilitating multi-stakeholder dialogues at the city level to ensure diverse voices are heard. - Improving coordination across different city departments to streamline efforts. - Collaboratively designing reskilling and upskilling policies that meet local job market needs. - Advocating for inclusive support allocations at the EU level to ensure equitable resource distribution. - Participating in European networks and partnerships to share knowledge and best practices.

The report concludes that effective implementation of just transition strategies at the local level, in alignment with regional and national frameworks, is essential for the future of work and long-term economic development. By restoring trust between local governments and their communities, these strategies can also help to reduce social and territorial inequalities within Europe.

Overall, the report serves as a crucial resource for understanding the dynamics of the just transition in Europe, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts that integrate sustainability, equity, and community engagement in the journey towards a greener future.