1.3.1 Climate justice – a movement of many movements

Climate justice can be seen as a movement of many movements, that looks to achieve a vision of a scientifically sound and socially just response to global warming and climate change.

Striving for climate justice means that groups identified as being vulnerable by rising temperatures are consulted and supported in decisions around the environment that affect them. In other words, climate justice also means the fair and meaningful involvement of all people – regardless of race, colour, national origin or income – with respect to the design, implementation and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, policies and programmes.

In your context, your home, neighbourhood, office or organisation are broadly seen as part of our environment. In your own practice and in the pedagogical spaces you create, addressing questions related to climate and environmental injustice is an important aspect of climate education. It’s critical both for ensuring everyone who participates in those spaces is aware of the various injustices, and for supporting them to develop their abilities to reflect, deliberate and position themselves on these complex issues. It is also critical because you show how much you value the knowledge of individuals and communities that are affected by climate change.