The transformations of urban societies are manifold and can make use of both digital technologies in the fields of energy and nature-based solutions. But what actions can citizens actually take? What elements should be considered in promoting a just transition and reducing inequalities among social groups?
These were key topics discussed during the ESA RN12 mid-term and Energy and society Network 6th international joint conference, titled “Energy, Environment and Societies in Crises”, held by the University of Trento from the 6th to the 8th of September 2023.
The results of two different projects were presented: Jessica Balest and Federico Voltolini from Eurac Research presented JUSTNature, based on a socio-ecological justice concept that supports the co-creation of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) with citizens and other stakeholders; and ROLES, a project aimed at promoting digitalization for deep decarbonization pathways. Both projects focus on tangible opportunities for citizens to engage in just and sustainable transformation processes, and the discussion emphasized that the cultural aspects embedded in different cities can make a difference.
