DECARBONISING CITIES EQUITABLY: AN ANALYSIS OF THE EUROPEAN MISSION AND ITS IMPLEMENTATION IN SPAIN

The European Union (EU) has established an ambitious mission to accelerate progress towards the goals of the Paris Agreement (2015) and the European Green Deal (2020): at least a hundred European cities will achieve climate neutrality by 2030. Although the EU has provided tools for cities to integrate environmental and economic aspects into the design and implementation of the mission locally, this article argues that the social dimension of the transition has not been given enough attention. The authors draw conclusions from their observation of the Spanish context, the analysis of local strategies, and formal and informal interviews with municipal representatives. The article delves into the concept of social justice in the context of the transition towards climate neutrality, emphasising the imperative to integrate this approach from the outset. It ensures that the diagnosis of pre-existing inequalities, citizen participation, and the evaluation of incentives and co-benefits contribute to the design, implementation and evaluation of climate policies. Close collaboration between municipal departments and administrative levels is paramount to ensure policy coherence and efficacy. In conclusion, the article urges a reassessment of existing mechanisms to promote a socially just and inclusive transition, advocating for a holistic approach that integrates environmental, economic and social dimensions.