This brings together the results and reflections of the four Decarbonization and Transition Forums from the mining-energy model.Chapter 1 briefly introduces the global coal chain, its history, commercialization, and implications. Chapter 2 incorporates the concepts of climate justice and climate change into the coal production and consumption chain. Subsequently, Chapter 3 addresses the impacts of the extraction and transportation of coal in Colombia, and then, in Chapter 4, there are provided approaches to a just transition within local territories. Finally, Chapter 5 explores the co-creation methodologies of the Transition Agenda and the development of co-creation spaces.

‘Just transition’ is an organic and dynamic concept. As the concept is becoming widespread, it might be co-opted. To avoid co-optation, it is necessary to incorporate a broader, more global perspective. Also, there is a need for an inter- and transdisciplinary research agenda on ‘just transition’.

During the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference, South Africa signed an international partnership agreement with France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The ‘developed’ countries pledged $8.5 billion over the next 3-5 years to support a just transition towards a low carbon economy and climate-resilient society in South Africa (UNFCCC COP 26 2021). Referred to as “historical”, the partnership could assist South Africa in reaching its NDC targets and provide a decarbonization model for many other developing countries.

This book discusses and summarizes the revived interest in just energy transitions issues within the general context of the extraction and commercialization of coal and of energy transition policies in Colombia and worldwide.

JRS for Scholars 2021