Fundamental to addressing the climate crisis and achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement, the transition to a renewable energy matrix presents significant social, economic, and environmental challenges — especially for developing countries.
Launched by T20 South Africa, the policy brief “From Principles to Action: Strengthening the G20 Approach to Just and Inclusive Energy Transitions” analyzes how the G20 can advance the implementation of the Principles for Just and Inclusive Energy Transitions, adopted in 2024 under Brazil’s presidency of the group.
The document is authored by Beatriz Mattos (Plataforma CIPÓ), Anna Pérez Català and Marta Torres Gunfaus (IDDRI), and Anthony Dane, Lauren Hermanus, and Manav Khanna (Southern Transitions).
According to the authors, while the G20 Principles represent an important milestone, they still lack concrete instruments to ensure their effectiveness. The study identifies gaps such as the absence of clear social protection mechanisms, biodiversity safeguards, accountability instruments, and adequate financing means to drive a just and inclusive transition on a global scale.
To address these challenges, the policy brief proposes three policy recommendations for the G20, focusing on strengthening multilateral governance and aligning climate goals with social justice and sustainable development:
- Reinforce multilateralism by elevating the G20 Principles to high-level principles to foster synergies among different multilateral forums;
- Fortalecer os sinais políticos nos comunicados e grupos de trabalho do G20, garantindo apoio contínuo e coordenado à agenda de transição justa;
- Support the creation of a Matchmaking Mechanism that connects national needs with sources of finance, technology, and capacity-building.
Based on these proposals, the study argues that the G20 should play a central role in building energy transitions that reconcile climate goals, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability — essential elements for a low-carbon global economy.
