Society Watch: Why respecting Indigenous peoples’ rights is key to the energy transition

As global efforts to expand renewable energy intensify, it’s crucial to respect Indigenous peoples’ rights to ensure a just transition. At COP28, 130 countries committed to increasing renewable energy capacity by 2030, but concerns remain about the social and environmental impacts of these projects. For instance, in Laguna de Bay, Philippines, fishermen worry that floating photovoltaic panels could harm fish stocks. The Responsible Energy Initiative (REI) advocates for a rights-based approach, emphasizing the need to minimize environmental and social damage. In Canada, equitable partnerships with Indigenous communities in clean energy projects have been established, though challenges persist regarding fossil fuel extraction on Indigenous lands. Successful energy transitions require close collaboration with Indigenous peoples, honoring their right to self-determination. Read more.