Just and Fair Transitions in the Renewable Energy Sector: A Qualitative Study of Renewable Energy Companies' Responsibility to Respect the Human Rights of Indigenous People in Latin America

Abstract

Over the past few decades, the increased social and environmental adverse impacts of climate change have prompted efforts to mitigate climate change. Although renewable energy projects present opportunities in this regard, these projects also pose several challenges that perpetuate injustices, especially toward Indigenous people. The objective of this qualitative study is to examine how companies can contribute to a just and fair transition by the promotion and protection of the human rights of Indigenous people in Latin America. Employing energy justice and green colonialism frameworks, we explore how renewable energy projects infringe on the rights of Indigenous people and the potential underlying rationale of such injustices. From a Business and Human Rights (BHR) perspective, we then delve into how companies can be responsible actors to ensure a just and fair transition. Findings indicate that although some companies have good intentions, historical injustices and unequal power dynamics between the Global North and Global South permeate in the implementation of renewable energy projects, where companies (and states) to a greater or lesser extent fall short in recognizing and protecting Indigenous people’s culture, traditions and values. As such, to promote a just and fair transition, our findings advocate for companies to adopt approaches where human rights considerations serve as the foundation on which renewable energy projects decisions are based.