Indigenous advocates at the UN say the green transition is neither clean nor just

This story is part of the Global Indigenous Affairs Desk, a collaboration between Grist, High Country News, ICT, Mongabay, Native News Online, and APTN. Maureen Penjueli, an Indigenous iTaukei from Fiji, has witnessed the impact of climate change firsthand. She is skeptical of the “clean energy” solution, particularly due to concerns about deep-sea mining and its potential impacts on her people. Penjueli recently attended the UNPFII in New York to discuss the challenges faced by Indigenous communities in the transition to green energy. She joined other activists in calling for respect of Indigenous rights in all energy projects. The ongoing green economy poses risks to Indigenous lands and communities, emphasizing the need for fair compensation and consultation with Native peoples. The shift to a mineral-based energy economy must consider the rights and well-being of Indigenous peoples worldwide. The urgency of these concerns is growing as the energy transition accelerates with substantial funding from major global powers. The focus is on ensuring justice and equity for Indigenous communities during this critical period.