A diverse panel of experts has issued a report outlining guidance and principles for governments and industry to ensure that the global energy transition to renewable energy is just and sustainable.
The report, titled “Resourcing the energy transition: principles to guide critical energy transition minerals towards equity and justice,” was convened by the UN Secretary-General. It builds on existing international norms and legal obligations, and sets out a series of concrete measures that can be taken to address the challenges associated with the extra demand for critical minerals needed for renewable energy technologies.
These measures include the establishment of a high-level expert advisory group to facilitate multistakeholder policy dialogue and coordination on economic issues in mineral value chains, and the creation of a fund to address legacy issues as a result of derelict, ownerless or abandoned mines. The report also calls for greater transparency and accountability in the extractive sector, as well as measures to promote sustainable development and human rights.
The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, welcomed the publication of the report as a way to guide the global energy transition in a way that is fair, just and sustainable.
“Today’s report from the Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals is a how-to guide to help generate prosperity and equality alongside clean power,” said Mr. Guterres. “This report identifies ways to ground the renewables revolution in justice and equity, so that it spurs sustainable development, respects people, protects the environment, and powers prosperity in resource-rich developing countries.”
The report will be followed by consultations and dialogues with Member States and other stakeholders ahead of the UN COP29 climate conference later this year. The Co-Chairs and Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals will consult and share the report and its recommendations with Member States and other stakeholders ahead of COP29 later this year.