The US stands at a pivotal moment to develop an equitable clean energy economy. The recent momentum towards achieving net zero emissions to combat climate change, combined with a growing availability of data and technology, can set it on a path to make right generations of racial and class discrimination in communities across the nation. This discrimination has led to a state of energy injustice, where low-income people and people of colour in frontline communities suffer from higher energy burdens, power shutoffs and service breakdowns. Often sited close to natural hazards and lacking adequate infrastructure, research shows these communities suffer the first and worst impacts of climate change, with residents having insufficient resources to adapt or mitigate, contribute to decisions made, or make the most of available clean energy solutions (i.e. renewables).
The US has fallen short on clean energy equity, and economic disparities and climate change only widen the gap. But this can be solved: a just, clean energy transition will play a fundamental role in making frontline communities resilient to the unavoidable effects of climate change.
To learn more about why investments in and better access to data can help to mitigate environmental harm and address energy injustice faced by frontline communities, download the infographic and read our recently published report here.
