A new paper delves into the concept of “just resilience,” emphasizing the integration of justice and equity into climate adaptation and resilience research and policy. By exploring underrepresented perspectives, particularly from the global south, and addressing the social, structural, and geographical drivers of vulnerability, the paper seeks to shape a global agenda for equitable adaptation.
Emergence of Just Resilience
Just resilience has become a critical focus in addressing the unequal burdens of climate change. Adaptation strategies can inadvertently create disparities, turning some groups into winners while leaving others behind.
Interplay of Climate and Structural Inequities
Climate change impacts often exacerbate preexisting inequities based on wealth, power dynamics, gender, ethnicity, age, health, education, and political capacity. These compounded vulnerabilities require targeted approaches for effective and just adaptation.
High-income countries, including Canada, Australia, and several European nations, as well as South Africa, have taken the lead in integrating justice and equity into their climate resilience strategies. These efforts set a precedent for global practices but must also incorporate diverse perspectives, especially from regions most vulnerable to climate impacts.
The paper provides actionable insights to help practitioners incorporate justice into adaptation strategies. It highlights examples of equitable adaptation, offering a roadmap to balance social and geographical inequities in climate resilience.
By addressing the systemic factors that drive vulnerability and spotlighting strategies that prioritize equity, this paper serves as a call to action for a more inclusive, just approach to climate adaptation worldwide.