The research project Land use justice for green transitions (JUSTGREEN) project aims to develop a framework for just land use assessment, applicable to both completed and planned renewable energy projects and related processes. As the green transition drives significant land use changes in the Nordic countries, it often leads to conflicts due to social and environmental concerns.

Given the global decline in biodiversity, it is crucial that decisions related to carbon-free energy infrastructure consider holistic and just land use policies, recognising the loss of landscapes, biodiversity, and nature’s contributions to people. This project integrates theories of legitimacy, justice, and the valuation of nature to create a framework that balances competing interests and enhances the legitimacy of green transitions.

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The framework will be tested through case studies of onshore wind and mining projects in Norway, Finland, Denmark, and Iceland, examining how justice and value recognition are incorporated into planning processes. Additionally, the project will explore conflict resolution methods in land use change processes.

JUSTGREEN will improve understanding of land use justice, ensuring that planning and research processes are meaningful to stakeholders and linked to actual decision-making. The project aims to foster more inclusive and equitable land use decisions.