JUST TRANSITION VS COAL MINING

JUST TRANSITION VS COAL MINING

In 2022, the Norwegian Embassy compiled a report "Clean Energy Transition in Tanzania: Powering Sustainable Development". The Executive Summary of the report said, quote "Over the next decades Tanzania faces two fundamental energy challenges: One, achieving universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy services by 2030, as set out in the United Nation´s Sustainable Development Goal 7; and Two, Increasing the supply of electricity to fuel economic growth and improve livelihoods while avoiding a lock-in to polluting fossil fuels." This article pivots around the just transition and the mining of the dirty coal.

Energy transition refers to the global shift from fossil-based energy systems, such as oil, coal, and natural gas, to renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. This process aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance energy security, and mitigate climate change. Central to this shift is the move towards sustainability, where energy systems not only meet current needs but do so in a way that preserves resources and the environment for future generations.

A just energy transition ensures that the shift to renewable energy sources is fair and inclusive, providing benefits for all, particularly the most vulnerable communities affected by the change. It emphasizes equity, social justice, and the creation of green jobs while phasing out fossil fuels. This concept acknowledges that while the transition is necessary for environmental reasons, it must also address economic and social disparities, ensuring that no one is left behind in the process.

Why Transition?

The transition to renewable energy is driven by the urgent need to combat climate change, reduce air pollution, and foster sustainable economic growth. Historically, coal has been a cornerstone of industrialization since the Industrial Revolution, providing the primary energy source for manufacturing and electricity generation. However, the environmental costs of coal have become increasingly apparent. Burning coal releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2), contributing to global warming and climate change. Additionally, coal mining and combustion result in air and water pollution, adversely affecting public health and ecosystems.

Coal's Environmental Impact

Coal's contribution to climate change is profound. It is one of the largest sources of CO2 emissions globally, which are a major driver of global warming. The extraction and burning of coal also release other harmful pollutants, including sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter, leading to respiratory diseases and environmental degradation. The environmental and health impacts of coal underscore the need for a transition to cleaner energy sources.

Coal in Tanzania: The Karoo Belt

In Tanzania, coal mining has surged, particularly in the Karoo Belt, due to the increased demand for coal following the Ukraine-Russia tension, which disrupted global energy supplies. The Karoo Belt, rich in coal deposits, has seen a boom in mining activities. However, this boom has not been without issues. The Controller and Auditor General (CAG) of Tanzania has identified numerous accountability problems within the coal mining sector. These issues include inadequate regulatory oversight, environmental violations, and lack of transparency in revenue management, which hinder the sector's potential benefits to the local economy and environment.

The Global Shift Away from Coal

As the world increasingly transitions to renewable energy, the space for coal is rapidly diminishing. International agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, aim to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, necessitating a sharp reduction in fossil fuel use, including coal. Countries worldwide are adopting policies to phase out coal and invest in renewable energy sources. This global trend presents a challenge for coal-dependent economies and industries, underscoring the importance of a just transition that considers the socioeconomic impacts of moving away from coal.

Conclusion

While the energy transition is critical for sustainable development and combating climate change, it must be managed in a way that is just and equitable. For Tanzania, navigating this transition involves addressing the accountability issues in its coal sector and aligning with global efforts to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The shift towards renewable energy offers an opportunity for cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable growth, but it requires careful planning and inclusive policies to ensure a fair and just transition for all stakeholders.