Net Zero for Whom? Evaluating Government Climate Programs Through a Justice Lens

Abstract

This paper critically evaluates government climate programs through the lens of justice, focusing on their effectiveness in achieving equitable outcomes for all segments of society. While many nations, including Indonesia, have committed to achieving "net-zero" carbon emissions by mid-century, there is a growing concern that these policies may disproportionately benefit affluent urban populations and multinational corporations, while neglecting marginalized communities. This study analyzes the socio-economic and geographic disparities that shape the implementation and impact of climate policies, such as carbon pricing, renewable energy incentives, and environmental regulations. Specifically, it assesses how these programs affect lower-income, rural, and indigenous populations, who are often the least responsible for environmental degradation yet bear the brunt of its consequences. The paper argues that without addressing these disparities, climate programs risk reinforcing existing inequalities rather than mitigating them. By applying principles of climate justice, the paper proposes that net-zero goals must be accompanied by targeted interventions that ensure vulnerable groups are not excluded from the benefits of climate action and that they receive necessary support to adapt to the negative impacts of climate change. This research contributes to the international discourse on climate justice by offering a critique of the current trajectory of government climate strategies. It advocates for a more inclusive, rights-based approach to climate policy, urging governments to integrate equity into their climate goals. By focusing on both global and local perspectives, this paper emphasizes the need for policies that balance environmental sustainability with social justice, promoting a more inclusive and equitable transition to a sustainable future.