Sustainable futures: Aligning climate actions and socio-economic justice through the just energy transition
Phemelo Tamasiga, Helen Onyeaka, Malebogo Bakwena, Benita Kayembe, Valentine Munyaradzi Dzingai, Nancy Kgengwenyane, Agnes A. Babugura, El houssin Ouassou
Abstract
The transition towards a just and equitable energy system is a crucial pathway to reconciling climate action with socio-economic justice, as outlined by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement. This systematic review examines the evolving scope of the Just Energy Transition, which has expanded from labor concerns to broader socio-economic and environmental dimensions. It presents a compelling case for safeguarding marginalized and vulnerable communities as economies shift to low-carbon models. The review investigates the synergies and trade-offs between SDG implementation and climate action, emphasizing the need to balance economic growth, energy access, food security, and infrastructure development with climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts. Achieving a just energy transition requires prioritizing renewable energy investments, sustainable infrastructure, and policies that promote equity. Decentralized energy systems have effectively reduced energy poverty and alleviated regional disparities. However, the review also identifies potential trade-offs, such as economic disruption and increased inequality, if the transition is not managed inclusively. These challenges require an integrated policy framework that promotes cross-sectoral collaboration, drives clean energy innovation, accelerates the mobilization of private capital, and implements targeted subsidies. Such a comprehensive approach is indispensable for securing sustainable futures that meet climate action and socio-economic justice mandates. Comprehensive stakeholder engagement and capacity-building initiatives are critical to executing a just transition that aligns economic policy with environmental stewardship. • The Just Energy Transition (JET) can drive synergies between climate action and socio-economic justice. • Decentralized renewable energy systems can reduce inequality and energy poverty in underserved regions. • Economic disruption and inequality may increase without inclusive energy transition management. • Cross-sectoral collaboration and targeted policies are essential for balancing climate mitigation with equitable development. • Policy frameworks should prioritize investments in green infrastructure and capacity-building for vulnerable communities.