December 5, 2024, Beijing - The launch event “Towards an Inclusive Green Future” was successfully held today in Beijing, co-hosted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Institute of Energy at Peking University. The event focused on exploring sustainable development strategies for coal-dependent regions in China and the broader Asia Pacific region.
 
"In addressing the climate emergency, it is critical to remember that the challenges facing development are often intertwined,” said Ms. Beate Trankmann, UNDP Resident Representative in China, in her opening remarks. “Climate action is not just about reducing emissions; it is also about ensuring that the transition to a green economy is inclusive, equitable, and leaves no one behind.”
 
“We must insist on a human-centered transition for vulnerable groups, focusing not only on employment but also on many other related welfare issues,” said Mr. YANG Lei, Deputy Dean of the Institute of Energy at Peking University, emphasizing the importance of people-centered approaches.
 
"Shanxi is vigorously promoting a comprehensive green transformation. This will have profound impacts on the region’s economic structure, fiscal income, and employment,” said Mr. WU Dongsheng, second-level inspector of Shanxi Provincial Development and Reform Commission, highlighting Shanxi’s transformation under the carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals. “The 2024 provincial government work report has formally introduced the concept of a just transition."
 
"While reducing carbon emissions is critical, it is equally important to ensure that the benefits of this transition reach all communities and vulnerable groups who struggle to meet their daily needs," said Ms. Ying Zhang, UNDP Regional Energy Specialist for Asia and the Pacific, underscoring the need for an equal and inclusive energy transition.
 
During the event, a new report titled “Towards a Just Transition: How Greening China’s Economy Will Impact Its Regions” was launched. This second-phase research, a collaboration between UNDP and the Institute of Energy at Peking University, takes a deep dive into Shanxi’s case of energy transition, forecasts labor market changes in the province, outlines the steps being taken by the provincial government, and provides targeted policy recommendations.
 
The report launch was followed by two panel discussions. The first panel focused on structural industrial transformation to support an inclusive transition in coal-dependent regions. Panelists emphasized the need for industry diversification, workforce skill development, and innovative policies to ensure an inclusive transition. The discussion also highlighted the crucial role of government support and international collaboration in navigating these transitions and ensuring sustainable development.
 
The second panel discussion focused on financing an inclusive transition at the subnational level. Panelists shared insights on the current landscape, including existing practices, challenges, and the support needed. They discussed ways to integrate social considerations into financing activities and leverage innovative financing to support inclusive transitions and promote gender equality in the energy transition.
 
The discussions held during today’s event have set a stage for advancing inclusive green transitions and fostering ongoing and future efforts to achieve sustainable development and equitable energy transformations across coal-dependent regions in China and the Asia Pacific.