A world without fossil fuels is entirely possible

Mr. Sergejev, in some European countries, the energy transition is in full swing, while in others – like Bulgaria – it seems to be just beginning. What is the situation in your region?

In Ida-Virumaa, Estonia, it is in full swing – both the transition to climate neutrality as a whole and the activities of the just transition fund, specifically. In Estonia the phase-out of energy production based on oil shale has been going on for years – Estonia’s carbon footprint today is already less that half of what it used to be back in the 90’ies – but a lot of work is still ahead. As far as the JTF is concerned – by today over 60% of the fund is covered by projects and implementation of various activities is well on its way. So yes, we are well on our way!

The differences in the speed of transition are partly related to the different perceptions of those affected by it. In your opinion, is the transition a problem or a solution for regions dependant on fossil fuels?

It is definitely a solution, but for some people it takes time and effort to start seeing it that way. Making people understand the need for a transition in a region heavily dependent on the production and use of fossil fuels – it is tough! Once people do realize the need for a transition and accept its inevitability, motivating them to do something about it – e.g. enrol in additional training, change jobs, start a small business, participate in the various community events that we organize via the fund – that is another massive effort! We are talking about vulnerable communities, which are undergoing massive socio-economic changes and have had to go through similar changes in the past (e.g. in case of Ida-Virumaa – the massive shut-down of local industries that followed the collapse of the Soviet Union) – we need to make sure we get this ongoing transition right. In such communities the youth are of critical value – their versions of the future differ quite remarkably from the rest of the population and they have a lot to offer. We need to make sure they can recognise themselves as part of the solution in their home regions, and we have to give them the right tools to act.

What would you say to those affected by the transformation to convince them in a few words that the transition is a good thing?

First, we need to understand that the transition is inevitable if we want to survive as a species. That is not scaremongering – it is a plain fact, if we look at the data. It is good to remind ourselves sometimes that the planet we inhabit does not need or care about us – we need the planet, so let us behave accordingly. Second, the future we are creating needs to be a clean one, so that it fits into our planetary boundaries. The good thing is that the absolute majority of the world – including most of our trade partners – agree on this and are generally moving in the same direction. And third, thanks to the JTF, we have right now a unique opportunity in regions like Ida-Virumaa to partake in creating this new future and need to make sure we win as a result of the transition process.

What does the speed and success of this transition depend on?

Many factors: a vision of the future where we are heading, mutual understanding between stakeholders, clear and well-communicated policy, listening to the local community and entrepreneurs, access to resources, activeness of the local business community – the list goes on.

In your opinion, what does a "just" transition mean, and do you support the statement that "if even one person is left without a job, the transition is already unjust"?

I believe that a just transition is one that creates for me a future, where I can retain my decency as a human being, can have a purpose and stay an active member of the society. Such a transition should help me find this new me – it should create for me the opportunities for development and growth, and equip me with tools necessary to seize those opportunities. However, we need to understand that all transitions – whether societal or personal – are uncomfortable and they require a degree of agency on my part as well. Always. As I mentioned above, the transition to climate neutrality is inevitable. The purpose of a just transition is not to avoid the transition altogether – it is to make it smoother.

What is your vision for energy without fossil fuels?

The good news is that a world without fossil fuels is completely possible. It is a clean world, full of awesome technology and opportunities, where humankind has achieved a balance between our needs and the boundaries of our natural environment. I would love to live in such a world, and I will try my best to contribute to making it a reality.

On September 25th, the event "Just Transition Opportunities Across Borders" will take place in Sofia, where you will be a speaker; what can attendees expect?

Co-financed by the European Union. However, the views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author( s ) and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Governing Body. Neither the European Union nor the Managing Authority can be held responsible for them.

Co-financed by the European Union. However, the views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author( s ) and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Governing Body. Neither the European Union nor the Managing Authority can be held responsible for them.