This study outlines the inputs needed to assess both the implementation and socio-economic impacts of carbon management (CM) technologies in Just Transition regions.
It suggests that CM technologies could play a significant role in supporting some of Romania’s Just Transition regions by enabling emissions reductions, as well as maintaining industrial activity and safeguarding employment in regions reliant on heavy industry. Romania is well placed to advance these solutions, given the concentration of hard-to-abate sectors in these regions and favourable geological conditions for CO₂ storage.
Author’s Insights:
“Given the economic vulnerability of Just Transition countries, carbon management could offer a viable decarbonisation pathway while supporting the transformation of local industrial bases. To ensure effective and equitable implementation, the deployment pathway should be guided by governance and strategic alignment; planning, financing, and phased rollout; workforce transition and local capacity, and community engagement and equitable benefit.
The assessment shows that carbon management should be integrated in decarbonisation strategies for Just Transition regions. However, its full climate, social and economic potential remains insufficiently recognised. This is partly due to limited local awareness and technical understanding, combined with weak coordination between local and central authorities. Moreover, as highlighted in the Capacity Gaps Assessment, the lack of political commitment, both centrally and locally, further constrains the integration of CM into regional transition planning. These findings point to the need for clearer strategic direction and coordinated action to ensure that CM can effectively support the objectives of a just transition.”
– Ioana Maria Vasiliu
For further details and media inquiries, please contact Ana-Maria Niculicea: ana.niculicea@epg-thinktank.org
This paper was written as part of the GreenHorizon CEE Project: Industrial Carbon Management for a Sustainable Future in CEE. The project is funded by the European Climate Initiative (EUKI) of the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMUKN).