Regional Planning for a Just Transition: A case study for the North East of Scotland. May 2025
Key Messages from the last report from Just transition commission
1. The Need for a Just Transition in Aberdeen
- After 50 years of North Sea oil, Aberdeen faces economic uncertainty as fossil fuel production declines.
- Without urgent action, workers and communities risk economic instability, similar to past unjust transitions in coal and steel industries.
- A Just Transition ensures that jobs, skills, and economic opportunities are preserved while shifting to renewables.
2. Community Participation – Why It Matters
- Local voices must shape the transition to ensure policies reflect real needs.
- Aberdeen’s transition should not be dictated solely by corporations or policymakers—communities must have a say in their future.
- Public engagement initiatives, such as climate assemblies and participatory budgeting, empower residents to influence decisions.
3. How Communities Are Getting Involved
- Community Climate Assemblies: Local forums where residents discuss sustainability priorities and propose solutions.
- Participatory Budgeting: In 2024, Aberdeen residents voted on how £1 million should be spent on eco-friendly projects.
- Grassroots Initiatives: Organizations like NESCAN Hub and SCCAN amplify community-led climate action through storytelling and collaboration.
4. Challenges & Next Steps
- Lack of a clear transition plan for oil workers government must provide retraining and job security.
- Ensuring fair distribution of resources funding must prioritize communities most affected by economic shifts.
- Strengthening local decision-making Aberdeen’s transition must be co-created with residents, not imposed from the top down.
Conclusion
A Just Transition in Aberdeen must be community-driven, transparent, and equitable. By involving local voices, ensuring fair policies, and supporting grassroots initiatives, the city can move toward a sustainable future without leaving workers and residents behind.
