The peace and conflict potential of the green transition
When: 8 October 2024 | 11:45-12:45
Format: Roundtable discussion
Venue: Breakout room 4 (Rathenau-Saal)
Hosted by: the Wilson Center and Energy Peace Partners
Addressing the climate crisis requires a rapid phasing out of fossil fuels and expansion in renewable energy capacity. At COP28, more than 120 countries signed onto the Global Renewables and Energy Efficiency Pledge, which calls to triple renewable energy generation capacity by 2030. While this commitment is critical for mitigating climate change, it also introduces challenges. The global transition to renewable energy will reshape the geopolitical landscape, creating both uncertainties for fossil fuel-dependent economies and development opportunities for regions with reserves of the critical minerals needed to power the energy transition. How these dynamics play out on the local level and especially on the livelihoods and security of vulnerable populations needs to be carefully considered.
This session therefore aims to explore the peace and conflict potential of the green transition. Drawing from practical examples on the ground, discussions will centre on how to ensure the energy transition is peaceful. Speakers will share short inputs on initiatives to increase renewable energy investment in the countries most vulnerable to violent conflict, climate change impacts, and energy poverty, as well as how the humanitarian sector can contribute to the energy transition and provide energy solutions to those who need them the most.
Speakers:
- Andrew Hyde, Senior Fellow and Director, Human Security and Governance Program, The Stimson Center
- Chiara Buzzico, Senior Energy Advisor, Mercy Corps
- Ibrahim Wambai, Lead, Climate, Health, Conflict and Fragility, Clean Technology Hub
Moderated by Lauren Herzer Risi, Program Director, Environment Change and Security Program, Wilson Center
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