Empowering a Just Transition: Protecting Human Rights and Reducing Reliance on New Mineral Resource Extraction – Insights from HRC59 Side Event

There’s increasing awareness that a just transition is essential for tackling climate change and achieving sustainable development. The climate crisis threatens ecosystems, economies, and communities everywhere. Sadly, those who have done the least to cause this crisis are often the hardest hit. By applying human rights principles to the just transition, we can create fairer, more inclusive paths toward sustainability.

A just transition focuses on moving towards a low-carbon economy in a way that includes everyone. It’s about making sure nobody is left behind. This involves adopting a circular economy, which emphasizes reusing materials rather than extracting new resources. For instance, cleaner battery technologies need fewer minerals. By promoting circular economy policies, countries can limit their dependence on newly mined materials like lithium and cobalt. This not only reduces environmental harm but also lessens human rights abuses linked to mining practices.

Moreover, it’s crucial to focus on creating decent jobs and safeguarding workers’ rights, especially in regions that rely heavily on fossil fuels. The upcoming side event will include insights from the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights and climate, along with other panelists. They will share vital perspectives on making climate action equitable.

Currently, we face three major environmental crises: climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. These crises are intertwined and pose severe threats to human rights. The Geneva Rights and Climate Talks, part of the Human Rights Council’s session in June, will discuss these challenges and explore how various actors can prioritize human rights in climate strategies. Recent statistics indicate a 500% increase in demand for minerals by 2050 as we shift to greener technologies. This surge will heighten existing environmental challenges, making sustainable extraction and management more urgent.

Geneva is a hub for discussions around sustainable practices. Many organizations work together here to foster environmental sustainability in the lifecycle of minerals and metals. These dialogues involve various stakeholders, including governments and environmental groups, aimed at addressing the complexities of resource governance.

The event will feature prominent speakers, such as Elisa Morgera, the UN Special Rapporteur on climate change, and Yves Lador from Earthjustice. Their expertise will shed light on the importance of integrating human rights into our climate response.

Ultimately, a just transition is not just necessary; it’s imperative for our future. Together, we can build a more equitable and sustainable world.

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