Climate justice, adaptation, and sustainability: A capabilities approach

Abstract

The paper starts with a brief overview of a number of current approaches to climate justice, noting concerns about each. Next, two conceptions of justice currently unaddressed by these approaches, recognition and capabilities, are discussed. A broad capabilities-based approach to climate justice is then laid out, incorporating recognition, and focused on how the approach can be more directly applied to climate change and human interactions with the natural world. Finally, the policy implications of this approach are addressed, with a focus on the assessment of vulnerabilities and importance of public participation. • This working paper was presented at the Contemporary Challenges of Politics Research Workshop held on 31 October 2011 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Coogee Beach, Coogee, NSW, Australia.