Climate Justice

Climate justice is a framework that recognizes and seeks to address the disproportionate burdens of climate change borne by historically marginalized and low-emitting communities, those who have contributed the least to global greenhouse gas emissions but face the most severe consequences. It draws attention to structural inequalities, such as colonial histories, socio-economic marginalization, and uneven development, that shape differential exposure, vulnerability, and access to climate solutions.At its core, climate justice calls for equitable, inclusive, and historically informed responses to the climate crisis. It embraces multiple dimensions of justice:1. Distributive justice, which concerns the fair allocation of climate-related benefits and harms;2. Procedural justice, which demands inclusive and transparent decision-making processes that center the voices of those most affected; and3. Recognition justice, which acknowledges diverse worldviews, knowledge systems, and lived experiences, especially those of Indigenous Peoples and local communities (Fraser, 1995; Schlosberg, 2007).The IPCC Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) emphasizes that prioritizing equity and justice not only addresses ethical obligations but also enhances the effectiveness, sustainability, and legitimacy of climate responses (IPCC, 2023). Justice-based approaches are central to achieving just transitions, transformative adaptation, and durable climate resilience.