Rapid literature review brief: Advancing a fair and equitable shift to a green future
Introduction
The Atlantic Institute is seeking a researcher/consultant to conduct a rapid literature review and produce a high-level summary of key academic, policy and grey literature related to achieving an equitable transition to a green future. This rapid review will identify and synthesize publications that explore how to drive a sustainable, just, inclusive and beneficial shift for all communities, with a particular focus on the most vulnerable populations. The review will inform the first edition of the Institute’s flagship project, “The Equity Review,” and may be included in the publication
About “The Equity Review”
“The Equity Review” will be a biennial open-access publication developed by the Atlantic Institute in partnership with Oxford University Press It will serve as a leading voice in global conversations about equity. Through transformative dialogue, “The Equity Review” will connect researchers, practitioners, and communities directly impacted by inequities, providing essential insights and innovative solutions that bring lasting improvements to people’s lives by addressing the causes of systemic challenges. This flagship publication will blend research, lived experiences and expert analysis to advance equity, offering different perspectives on climate change, health, race, social and economic inequality, and more. The first edition of the Review will focus on how we move toward an equitable shift to a greener world
Objectives
The literature review will explore academic and grey literature on the environmental, social and economic impacts of the transition to a green economy Key topics will include how climate change and transitions to a green future intersect and interact with sustainability rights and inequalities They will explore whether or not marginalized populations are being left behind. The consultant will identify publications that explore policy approaches, frameworks and strategies promoting fairness and provide actionable insights proposed for governments, organizations and change-makers working toward a more equitable and sustainable future.
Key areas (though not necessarily limited to):
1. Decarbonization and equity: Publications on the social and economic dimensions of sustainability, including frameworks and policies ensuring fairness in the transition to a green economy.
2 Social impacts: Publications identifying communities most vulnerable to decarbonization, including workers in carbon-intensive sectors and marginalized groups; as well as publications that study the adverse impacts of this transition on human rights, gender, race, health, dispossession, economic inequality and other disadvantages.
3 Economic impacts: Publications investigating the costs and benefits of the green transition for various sectors, and key debates focusing on economic inequality and equitable opportunities.
4. Policy approaches for a just transition: Publications examining policies prioritizing inclusivity in green transition strategies, including subsidies, incentives and investments in green technologies.
5 Preventing vulnerable populations from being left behind: Publications exploring inclusive policymaking, community engagement and stakeholder involvement in green policies.
Scope of work
The consultant will conduct a rapid literature review, synthesizing key findings from academic research, policy reports, grey literature and relevant case studies. They will focus on identifying evidence, frameworks and best practices for ensuring a fair transition, particularly for marginalized communities. The review should encompass both global and regional perspectives, highlighting key trends, gaps and actionable recommendations for policy and practice.
We are seeking a high-level thematic overview of key publications (from 2020 onward) that examine the disproportionate impacts both actual and potential of the green transition on already vulnerable and marginalized communities We want to review the effects of a shift to a green economy on those who are already disproportionately impacted by climate change and how the green transition may exacerbate existing inequities and vulnerabilities.
The overview should synthesize key findings from relevant literature, identifying major debates, emerging trends and gaps in research The goal is to provide a clear, accessible summary of how these communities are affected by climate policies, economic shifts, and technological transitions, with a particular focus on equity-driven solutions.
The final scope of work will be subject to discussion and agreement with the consultant but may include:
1. Climate justice policies: publications examining policies and frameworks designed to address inequities in climate action
2. Employment and economic disruptions: publications on how the green transition affects job markets, particularly in regions and sectors reliant on fossil fuels, manufacturing and agriculture.
3. Energy access and affordability: publications on disparities in energy access, including the affordability of clean energy technologies
4. Land use and displacement: publications addressing the effects of large-scale renewable energy projects, conservation initiatives and climate adaptation infrastructure on Indigenous lands and marginalized communities
5. Health and environmental equity: strategies for integrating environmental justice principles into climate adaptation and mitigation efforts
6. Community participation and governance: publications on the role of marginalized communities in decision-making processes related to climate action.
Deliverables
● A detailed literature review report, approximately 5000-7500 words in length, organized by key themes identified in the brief.
● A summary of key findings, including actionable insights and recommendations for further research and policy development
● A list of key publications and authors to be included in an annotated bibliography.
Methodology
The consultant/researcher will be expected to:
● Provide a detailed methodology outlining the approach for sourcing and analyzing literature, identifying key frameworks, and synthesizing findings
● Use a range of sources, including academic journals, grey literature, policy papers, reviews, NGO reports, systematic literature reviews, frequently cited literature and landmark publications.
● Analyze literature through an equity-focused, intersectional, interdisciplinary, and sustainability lens, highlighting the effects on vulnerable populations and policy frameworks for a just transition.
● Produce a high-level thematic overview of the key findings
Timeline and milestones
● Deadline for proposals: Mar 31, 2025
● Start date: Apr 7, 2025
● Initial draft: May 5, 2025
● Review & feedback: May 12-16, 2025
● Final submission: May 20, 2025
Budget and payment terms
Proposals should include an estimated cost and breakdown of the consultant’s fees, including any potential expenses for research or materials. Payment will be made in three phases upon completion of agreed milestones
How to apply
Interested consultants or organizations should submit a proposal that includes:
● A summary of relevant experience in conducting literature reviews related to sustainable development, green economy transitions, or social equity
● A proposed methodology, including the types of sources to be consulted and frameworks for analysis.
● A timeline for completion, milestones and an estimated cost
● Contact details and relevant qualifications
Application deadline:
Please send your proposal to equityreview@atlanticfellows org by March 31, 2025 If you have any queries or would like to discuss the scope in advance of submitting a proposal, please contact us. We look forward to collaborating with you on this work that explores how we make the shift to a green future in a way that is fair, inclusive and beneficial to all.