At the TIME100 Summit, climate experts discussed the imperative of ensuring an equitable transition to clean energy in America. Robert D. Bullard of Texas Southern University highlighted the historical disparity in health and economic benefits between communities near polluting facilities and those reaping the benefits of the clean energy transition. He emphasized that communities historically excluded from decision-making processes must have a voice in determining the clean energy future.
A 2023 State of the Air Report revealed that people of color constitute 41% of the US population but 54% of those residing in counties with failing air quality grades. In the counties with the worst air quality, 72% of the affected residents are people of color, compared to 28% who are white.
However, there have been some victories. The Inflation Reduction Act, passed in 2022, allocated funds for an equitable transition. Christiana Figueres, co-host of the Outrage+Optimism Podcast, stressed the importance of international collaboration in investing in an equitable clean energy transition, particularly for vulnerable communities facing climate change impacts.
To ensure an equitable transition, it is crucial to address historical environmental injustices and empower communities that have been disproportionately affected by pollution. By doing so, we can create a future where the benefits of clean energy are shared equitably, and everyone has a voice in shaping the path toward a sustainable and just future.
