Less than 3% of international climate aid supports just transition efforts for workers and communities, highlighting a significant gap in equitable climate action, with calls for increased funding and policy reforms at upcoming UN climate negotiations.
Workers at General Motors' electric vehicle battery plants will be covered by the company's national contract with the United Auto Workers (UAW), ensuring labor protections and setting a precedent for the rest of the automotive industry. The victory comes as part of the UAW's ongoing strike against major US automakers and signifies a step towards a "just transition" for autoworkers in the EV sector. The agreement will safeguard workers at current and future battery plants, including joint ventures, as General Motors transitions away from fossil fuel-powered vehicles. This win could also inspire unionization efforts among other EV workers, such as those at Tesla, and potentially improve conditions in other sectors of the green economy.
Preethi, a transgender woman in Bengaluru, India, went from begging on the streets to owning her own electric rickshaw, thanks to a charitable donation. The organization, Shishu Mandir, aims to reduce pollution while empowering women and transgender individuals by providing them with electric vehicles for ride-hailing services. This initiative is part of India's efforts to transition to clean energy in a way that benefits people across economic backgrounds. By offering training, licenses, and affordable transport, electric vehicle companies and government programs can uplift those with lower incomes and ensure a just transition. Preethi's success story highlights the positive impact of such initiatives, as she now earns a steady income, can afford her own home, and enjoys the respect she receives in society.