UNpacking Just Transition: Principles, Myths, and Pathways to 1.5°C

Just Transition” (JT) is one of the most referenced yet least understood concepts in the climate agenda. In policy spaces, it is often reduced to a slogan; in political discourse, it is sometimes mischaracterized as slowing climate progress; and in communities, its relevance is not always clear. This session will strip JT to its fundamentals, examine the interconnections between climate action, social justice, and economic restructuring, and address both its transformative potential and the myths that hinder its adoption. With COP30’s focus on implementation and equity, this side event will provide clarity, challenge stereotypes, and present actionable collaboration points to accelerate JT as a driver of the 1.5°C target. By the end of the session, participants will: 1. Deconstruct the principle of Just Transition into its minimum core components (rights, equity, jobs, participation, finance, and governance). 2. Understand JT as an embedded climate action mechanism for delivering emission reductions and social resilience. 3. Identify misconceptions, political propaganda, and institutional hesitations around JT—and unpack their roots. 4. Explore why JT is perceived by some as anti-progress—and reframe it as a climate action catalyst. 5. Develop a COP30 JT Call-to-Action Brief with cross-sector recommendations for advancing JT in national and corporate transition plans.