Just Transitions Explorations of Sustainability in an Unfair World

Current economic growth strategies are rapidly depleting natural resources and eco-systems. Just Transitions provides a comprehensive overview of these global challenges from a global South perspective. How do developing countries eradicate poverty via economic development while encountering the consequences of global warming and dwindling supplies of clean water, productive soils, cheap oil, minerals and other resources? This book considers a just transition which reconciles the sustainable use of natural resources with a pervasive commitment to sufficiency (where over-consumers are satisfied with less so that under-consumers can secure enough). Case studies drawn from Africa detail the challenges, but they are set in the context of global trends. The authors conclude with their experience of building a community that aspires to live sustainably.

Mark Swilling is Professor in the School of Public Leadership, University of Stellenbosch, co-ordinator of the postgraduate programme in Sustainable Development, Academic Director of the Sustainability Institute, and a member of the International Resource Panel convened by the United Nations Environment Programme.