Stakeholder engagement (including local communities)

Current status of implementation and existing gaps

Similar to the knowledge exchange enabler, multilateral and international agencies are leading efforts to bring together different stakeholders to support industry and local communities in understanding the opportunities to make the transport sector sustainable. The electrification of heavy-duty trucks is gaining more attention within this discourse.

Examples and initiatives

IRENA’s Collaborative Frameworks leverage a multistakeholder approach to discuss energy transition priorities across its Member States. Several thematic topics have cross-sectoral relevance, including the decarbonisation of the transport sector: Just and Inclusive Transition, Critical Materials, Green Hydrogen, and Geopolitics.

The Utilities for Net Zero Alliance, another initiative by IRENA, is a coalition of major entities and energy focusing on expanding grid infrastructure.

Current status of implementation and existing gaps

The feedstock for biofuel production that can be used as shipping fuels could have implications for land use, soil health and biodiversity loss. There could be additional indirect impacts on the local communities due to local air pollution caused by feedstock transport.

Examples and initiatives

The ISCC and RSB voluntary certification schemes have criteria that include the socio-economic aspects of fuel production, such as food security, labour rights and water use.

Current status of implementation and existing gaps

The feedstock for biofuel production could have implications for land use, soil health and biodiversity loss. There could additional indirect impacts on the local communities due to local air pollution caused by feedstock transport.

Examples and initiatives

CORSIA-eligible SAF sustainability requirements include soil health, human and labour rights, water use and food security criteria.

Current status of implementation and existing gaps

Transitioning from traditional steel production to cleaner methods can significantly impact the communities that support the iron and steel industry. But the transition could involve opportunities for economic diversification and social safeguards for the communities affected.

Examples and initiatives

A deal agreed by the UK government, Tata Steel and the trade unions aims to secure the future of steelmaking in Port Talbot, United Kingdom, while transitioning to greener production methods. As a part of the deal, Tata Steel will offer support, including training programmes with financial support, voluntary redundancy packages, and efforts to minimise compulsory redundancies.

Current status of implementation and existing gaps

Transitioning from traditional production to cleaner methods can significantly impact the communities that support the chemical and petrochemical sector. The transition can involve opportunities for economic diversification and social safeguards for the communities affected.

Examples and initiatives

Chemical producers such BASF and Emery Oleochemicals have established community advisory panels to facilitate engagement with local residents and other stakeholders on topics such as health and safety.