Brief

Leaving No One Behind in Carbon Neutrality Strategies: Insights from Developing Countries in Asia and the Pacific

Policy recommendations to ensure a just and fair transition.

Date Published: 17 Apr 2023

Authors: Mahesti Okitasari Upalat Korwatanasakul

Series Title: UNU-IAS Policy Briefs

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Photo: Lisa Marie David / IMF Photo: Lisa Marie David / IMF

This policy brief identifies approaches to ensure a just and fair transition to carbon neutrality in developing countries, including targeted engagement and support measures for vulnerable populations. It offers recommendations for policymakers to mitigate the negative social and economic impacts of low-carbon initiatives while securing public support. The brief is based on analysis of the decarbonization strategies adopted by eight developing countries in Asia and the Pacific.

Highlights

Carbon neutrality strategies hold great promise for achieving the climate goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. The challenge is to adopt strategies favouring inclusive, resilient and sustainable measures, conforming with the principle of leaving no one behind. Placing this principle at the centre of such strategies helps developing countries in Asia and the Pacific manage unintended, unequal and unjust effects on vulnerable groups.

Recommendations:

Sustain decent work and reinforce labour rights to mitigate disruptions caused by the transition.
Combine climate initiatives with social protection measures to maintain an adequate standard of living for all.
Promote investments in inclusive climate projects and establish financial inclusion regulations.
Establish a people-centred and gender-sensitive monitoring, reporting and evaluation process.