The energy transition and its local socio-environmental impacts

Abstract

As the global demand for minerals critical to an energy transition accelerates, African countries, rich in natural resources, are becoming central to international supply chains. The session explores the implications and contradictions of a "green" energy transition critical for the global climate agenda and its negative environmental and social impacts for African countries. The presenter will draw from selected case studies from WWF's work in the SADC region, sharing insights from communities and local actors in Zambia and Zimbabwe. Finally, the session will conclude with reflections on systemic issues frequently accompanying mineral extraction and what needs to be done to ensure a more equitable and sustainable transition. 

Bio

Sofia Venturini, Senior Advisor on Minerals and Metals at the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), M.Sc. Conservation. Sofia leads work on natural resources governance and the environmental impacts of irresponsible mineral extraction in the Global South. With a conservation science and policy background, she brings expertise in research, advocacy, and community engagement. Sofia also coordinates a network of 30 WWF offices, shaping collective and coordinated approaches and strategies for addressing mining impacts.  

In the framework of the course "African Agency in the International System"