A just transition is moving to a low-carbon economy in a way that is fair and inclusive for workers and communities, creating decent work and leaving no one behind.
A just transition means shifting to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy in a way that protects the rights and livelihoods of workers and communities affected by the change. The idea is recognized in the preamble of the Paris Agreement and in guidelines from the International Labour Organization (ILO).
New green jobs are not automatically safe. Solar installation involves work at height and electrical hazards. Battery manufacturing and recycling bring fire and chemical exposure. Wind turbine maintenance involves rope access, confined spaces and remote work. A just transition includes training and controls for these hazards.
An energy company closing a coal-fired power station gave three years' notice, offered retraining in battery storage and wind maintenance, and kept experienced operators involved in decommissioning. New roles came with high-voltage, fall protection and confined space training before workers started.
No. It covers anyone affected, including supply chain workers, local businesses and communities.
Some ESG frameworks and investors ask how companies are managing workforce impacts of decarbonization.
EHS teams help assess hazards in new work, design training and make sure decommissioning and new operations are done safely.
Part of SafetyIQ's EHS glossary: plain-English definitions of workplace health and safety terms.
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