Mapping the Just Transition in Chile: Just Transition Observatory and Design Unit

Chile has embarked on an ambitious journey to achieve decarbonization by 2035 through its newly developed national just transition strategy, which focuses heavily on addressing climate injustice in so-called sacrifice zones. After two years of design work, the country now possesses a clear plan and strong political will to implement these measures. However, a critical uncertainty remains regarding how these ambitious policies will truly ensure justice for local communities and improve their lives as they move toward sustainability. This gap between existing policy and practical outcomes highlights the urgent need for mechanisms that can monitor fairness and effectiveness in real-time. To bridge this gap, the initiative proposes the establishment of a Just Transition Observatory paired with a prototype Design Unit based at the Institute for Sustainable Development of the Catholic University of Chile. The observatory will serve as a monitoring body to track progress and identify areas where the transition may be falling short of its ethical goals, while the design unit will function as an active team that translates the knowledge gathered by the observatory into concrete, actionable solutions. This dual approach ensures that insights derived from data and observation are not merely theoretical but are immediately applied to create tangible improvements for the people most affected by the transition. The effort is supported by a broader collaborative network known as the SDSN Chile Network, which unites more than 20 institutions to address every dimension of this complex challenge. This partnership underscores that a just transition is far more than a static government plan; it is a profound promise made to the citizens who will rely on these changes for their future well-being. By bringing together diverse expertise and institutional resources, the network aims to ensure that the path to sustainability does not leave vulnerable populations behind but instead actively enhances their quality of life. Ultimately, the success of Chile's decarbonization goals depends on moving beyond mere policy formulation to implementing a dynamic system of observation and design that responds to human needs. The combination of rigorous monitoring through the observatory and innovative problem-solving via the design unit creates a feedback loop essential for adapting strategies as they unfold. This comprehensive approach transforms the abstract concept of a just transition into a lived reality, ensuring that the shift toward a sustainable economy delivers genuine benefits to all communities across Chile.