Equitable deep decarbonization: A framework to facilitate energy justice-based multidisciplinary modeling. (October 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Spurlock, C. Anna; Elmallah, Salma; Reames, Tony G.
• Is Part Of: Energy research & social science. Volume 92(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-10
• Subjects: Energy justice -- Deep decarbonization -- Energy transitions -- Restorative justice -- Climate change -- Distributional analysis; Power resources -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Energy consumption -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; 333.7905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.erss.2022.102808
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2214-6296

Abstract

Abstract: Persistent, systemic harms have resulted in inequalities in wealth distribution, energy insecurity, infrastructure reliability, heat island exposure, and preexisting health conditions, all of which have exacerbated climate change driven damages. Efforts to decarbonize our energy system to address the climate crisis must seize the opportunity to reduce inequality. Doing so requires a multidisciplinary approach to assess the tradeoffs between alternative decarbonization pathways. In this Perspective we introduce an Equitable Deep Decarbonization Framework for mapping the tenets of energy justice to the practice of large-scale deep decarbonization pathways modeling designed to facilitate this multidisciplinary effort. We provide discussion of key considerations for each step of the framework to enable modeling that accounts for adaptation co-benefits associated with systematic climate risks to vulnerable communities. Highlights: Presents framework mapping energy justice to decarbonization pathways modeling Calls for multidisciplinary research centering priorities of affected communities Identifies steps to equitable deep decarbonization with practical considerations A restorative justice lens highlights adaptation co-benefits of climate mitigation.