What is a Just Transition?
To take global climate change seriously we need to accept that the old ways of doing things are no longer viable. Not economically, and certainly not environmentally. As greenhouse gas emissions rise and the atmosphere continues to heat and threaten climate stability and planetary wellbeing, business as usual is over. The world is going to change. Transition to a low- or no-carbon economy and society is unavoidable. In that coming change lies the chance to address economic imbalances and social inequities that defined the old way. A Just Transition is all about changing the architecture of our shared world. We can move away from the economic practices that cause global heating and threaten our wellbeing, towards a non-destructive economy. By choosing to work together we can ensure the transition is one that provides decent work, affordable housing, a dignified older age, and strong and resilient communities for the many rather than the few.
What does it have to do with South Gippsland?
Two things are missing from our region: a plan for transitioning to a low- or no-carbon society and the participation of local citizens in setting the agenda beyond the ballot box. If done in the right way, a Just Transition for South Gippsland presents the opportunity to turn the area into a leader on climate action and a thriving region for all its residents, young and old.A Just Transition Strategy, produced by and for South Gippslanders, will give us a future to look forward to.
Why get involved?
Remaking our world is a collective endeavour. It has to involve all of us, not just the dominant few. For too long all levels of politics have been monopolised by powerful groups with vested interests. Politicians hear a narrow range of voices. This is the chance to not just have your say, but to actively shape the future of our region, in both content and form. A Just Transition for South Gippsland is by definition a democratic process led by South Gippslanders from all walks and stages of life.How the transition might look is to be worked out collectively rather than imposed on us. You can get involved here.