Our Findings

Marginalised citizens in our participatory workshops imagined a number of net zero futures which went beyond the immediate concerns for the planet. Everything from work patterns, health care, personal wellbeing, local (and national) politics – even how we look after our pets – were major issues. Accessible, green living for all is a universal demand from our cohorts.

View the animation below to see a summary of their ideas.

Climate change is undeniable. The need to respond urgently has over-taken discussions of its existence. Almost all governments have responded to this urgency by developing policies to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, with significant reductions by 2030. The Australian and Western Australian policies are highly aspirational and propose to reduce emissions through an escalated introduction of ultra-low-cost renewable energy generation, phase out of fossil fuel energy generation, and use of electric and low-emission vehicles. They also propose sequestration of carbon emissions from mining, manufacturing and agriculture activities.

However, the policies do not adequately involve or consider marginalised groups, particularly at risk and less resilient to the effects of climate change. The policies and targets could easily fail if these groups are not consulted and represented in decision-making and technology implementation processes. Each group has unique vulnerabilities and capabilities that will affect the outcomes of policies, strategies and actions, and have the potential to offer alternative and exciting opportunities if they are allowed a seat at the table.