The climate emergency places Scotland at a historic juncture. If the government is committed to achieving its stated goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2045, the labour market will be restructured on a scale unprecedented during peacetime. Despite potential disruptions a green transition may produce, it can also lay the groundwork for transformative, new opportunities. Building a sustainable, low-carbon economy, provides policymakers with the scope to address a range of existing social inequalities.  This report is an attempt to address those injustices and ensure that a green transition provides a sustainable future for all. 

 

This research has been conducted by six students from the University of Edinburgh, coming from a diverse range of academic fields. The report stemmed from a shared curiosity in how a Just Transition can foster a more egalitarian, prosperous society. We have analysed and evaluated the Scottish government’s current strategies for a green jobs transition, as well as outlining the role that anchor institutions and local businesses can play in the process.

 

The existential threats posed by climate emergency, as well as the extent of social inequalities, demand joined-up, transformative policy-making. We hope our research can serve as a blueprint for how a Just Transition can mitigate against labour market risks and provide the foundation for a more inclusive, equitable Scotland.

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