CJI Surya Kant calls for fair distribution of clean energy transition costs

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has called for a fair distribution of the burdens associated with the global transition to clean energy. Speaking at the High-Level Commonwealth Policy Dialogue on Climate Justice in London, Kant highlighted a double injustice: the unequal vulnerability of certain regions to climate change and the unequal costs of transitioning to renewable power.

Kant noted that industrializing nations often face criticism for a perceived slow shift to renewables, despite developed nations having built their economic foundations over two centuries of fossil fuel use. He emphasized that the global shift must account for the differing circumstances of various countries to ensure fairness.

Furthermore, the Chief Justice raised concerns regarding the environmental and social costs of extracting minerals essential for green technology, such as lithium, cobalt, and copper. He warned that the pursuit of a cleaner future should not create ‘new forms of environmental hardship’ for the communities where these resources are mined. He also pointed out that climate vulnerability disproportionately affects low-lying island states, delta communities, and small-scale farmers who have contributed minimally to the climate crisis.