As Wales embraces the urgent need to address climate change and achieve a 95% reduction in emissions by 2050[1], the transition to a more sustainable and low-carbon economy becomes a glaring focus. However, this transition cannot only be environmentally sound but also encompass equity and fairness for everyone in Wales. In this sense, the concept of a just transition – the process of shifting to a more sustainable economy while safeguarding the rights and well-being of workers, communities, and the environment – is paramount during this transformative period.

The concept of a just transition originated from the labour movement in North America and has evolved and spread to other related areas of injustice such as those that might appear during the transition to a low or zero-carbon economy including job losses and the risk of exploitation. Therefore, a just transition must be discussed within the sphere of workers’ rights, especially in the context of rising action contesting working conditions and pay across public and private sectors in the UK, and controversy[2] surrounding new legislation[3] on restricting workers’ strikes and industrial action.

In Wales, industries such as coal mining and heavy manufacturing have played a significant role in the employment market. In the shift to net zero, these sectors will face decline, and ensuring job security for workers is imperative. A just transition in Wales would involve implementing comprehensive training and upskilling programmes to enable workers to transition into emerging sectors such as renewable energy, green technologies, and sustainable manufacturing. Collaborative initiatives backed by government, unions and industry can provide such opportunities and the financial support to equip workers with the skills needed for good, green jobs.

However, the transition needs to ensure that the work is fair and decent. Upholding labour standards and workers’ rights – including fair wages, safe working conditions, and the freedom to organise – is fundamental during the transition. The role of unions and worker representatives will be crucial for advocating for workers’ rights, and thus these stakeholders must be involved in shaping policies.

Equally, communities must be actively involved in planning for a just transition. Participatory processes enable local voices to be heard and ensure that the specific needs of affected communities in Wales are represented in decision-making and addressed. This will be particularly important in historically industrial regions of Wales where there is higher vulnerability to job loss during a transition to net zero.

Collaboration and partnership are key for a just transition, by sharing knowledge, expertise, and resources, stakeholders from environmental groups to policymakers to community organisations can foster a sense of shared responsibility and ownership and drive an equitable transition to a net zero, and a more sustainable Wales.

As Wales navigates the path towards a sustainable future and economy, workers’ rights must also take centre stage. A just transition approach in Wales would prioritise job security, retraining opportunities, fair work conditions, community engagement, and supportive policies.

A just transition in Wales is not only about addressing climate change but also about building a more inclusive and prosperous future for all its communities. By upholding workers’ rights and ensuring the wellbeing of Welsh citizens throughout the transition, Wales can demonstrate leadership in both environmental sustainability and social equity.

[1] https://www.gov.wales/wales-accepts-committee-climate-change-95-emissions-reduction-target

[2] https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-64219016

[3] https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/bills/cbill/58-03/0222/220222.pdf