Transition tensions: mapping conflicts in movements for a just and sustainable transition

Abstract

The concept of a ‘just transition’ positions justice concerns of workers, front-line communities, and other marginalized groups at the center of sustainability efforts. However, related scholarship has largely neglected conflicts that arise between sustainability and justice goals. A framework is developed to identify three main tensions that planners and activists may encounter in efforts to advance a just transition. First, the ‘sustainability-inclusivity’ tension involves conflicts between rapid and bold policy action in time-sensitive contexts and inclusive governance processes. Second, the ‘sustainability-recognition’ tension involves conflicts between sustainability performance and recognition of diverse value systems and rights. Third, the ‘sustainability-equity’ tension involves conflicts between achieving sustainability performance and equitable distribution of benefits and burdens. Identifying and intentionally responding to such tensions is crucial to advance a just transition in the context of growing domestic and international inequality, the erosion of worker rights, and a warming climate.