The European Group on Ethics in Science and New Technologies and the opinion on the just ecological transition

This article analyses the opinion of the European Group on Ethics in Science and New Technologies (EGE) Towards a just green transition: addressing structural inequities. The article first presents the origins, role and advisory function of the EGE within the European Union, then examines the ethical framework proposed for the green transition. The opinion develops a multidimensional understanding of justice, including distributional, corrective, transitional, procedural, recognitional, global, intergenerational and planetary dimensions. Particular attention is devoted to the capability approach, which allows justice to be assessed in relation to human flourishing, health, social inclusion and ecological
sustainability. The article argues that the green transition must be governed through transparent, participatory and accountable institutions, capable of protecting vulnerable groups, reducing structural “inequities” and aligning technological progress with human rights. From a public health perspective, the just green transition is not only an environmental necessity, but also a democratic and ethical imperative. The article concludes that the ecological transition can be sustainable only if it is guided by justice, solidarity and respect for human dignity.