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Topic

A just transition for oil and gas regions? A comparative analysis of just transition policies in Denmark, New Zealand and Scotland

School of Public Administration

Date & location

• Thursday, November 7, 2024
• 9:30 A.M.
• Clearihue Building, Room B017

Examining Committee

Supervisory Committee

• Dr. Tamara Krawchenko, School of Public Administration, University of Victoria (Supervisor)
• Prof. Evert Lindquist, School of Public Administration, UVic (Member)

External Examiner

• Dr. Sinead Earley, Environmental and Sustainability Studies, University of Northern British Columbia

Chair of Oral Examination

• Dr. Joseph Salem, School of Music, UVic

Abstract

Oil and gas regions across the world are undergoing significant changes as the pressure to decarbonise economies and reduce emissions becomes increasingly necessary to limit the effects of climate change. Concerns regarding broader impacts to the economy, uncertainty surrounding what we are transitioning toward, and, vitally, the inherent risks to workers and their communities are important considerations for ensuring a just transition. This comparative policy review examines just transition commitments, drivers, institutional structures, and accountability mechanisms in three oil and gas dependent regions, drawing out key lessons and leading practices. The regions of Taranaki (New Zealand), Aberdeen (Scotland), and Esbjerg (Denmark) have all committed to transitioning away from the oil and gas sector and employ place-based policies to drive their transitions, with distinctive challenges and opportunities that can inform Canada’s own transition. These cases utilise expert interviews to guide an in-depth analysis of academic and grey literature to reveal key characteristics of a just transition that Canada can integrate into its own policies.