IMPLICATIONS OF THEORY OF PARTICIPATION FOR UNDERSTANDING THE CHALLENGES AND PROCESSES ASSOCIATED WITH DECARBONIZING THE UK BY 2050


Gloria Opoku Darkoh, Nicholas Laweh, Edmund A. Dasori, Maxwell L Abilla, Ngozi Orji, Samuel Junior Amfo
Graduate Students, Department of Sustainability, Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, IL, USA
Abstract
Climate change remains one of the most urgent global challenges, with severe consequences including droughts, extreme weather events, and displacement. The transition to a low-carbon economy is widely recognized as essential for mitigating these effects. This paper explores the United Kingdom’s pathway toward decarbonization, emphasizing the importance of public participation through democratic innovations like mini publics. The theory of participation involves engaging the public in policy formation and environmental decision-making. By examining mini publics such as citizens' assemblies, this study highlights their role in enhancing public engagement and fostering acceptance of climate policies. The benefits of mini public include diverse viewpoints, improved cooperation between experts and citizens, and greater adherence to regulations. However, limitations exist, including challenges in achieving true representativeness, potential manipulation of expert testimonies, and the risk of recommendations being ignored by policymakers. Balancing the strengths and weaknesses of participatory approaches is vital to driving effective and inclusive decarbonization efforts in the UK.
Keywords: Decarbonization, Mini Public, Theory of Participation, Public Participation, Climate Policies
Journal Name :
EPRA International Journal of Climate and Resource Economic Review (CRER)

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Published on : 2025-01-08

Vol : 13
Issue : 1
Month : January
Year : 2025
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