Climate Reparations for a Just Response to Climate Change: A Review of Historical Responsibility and Future Implications

Abstract

For decades, international climate discussions have neglected the question of who compensates for climate‐induced loss and damage. COP27 marked a turning point, placing the issue at the forefront. There is a growing movement advocating for a reparative approach to address the climate crisis. The central premise is that nations with significant historical industrial contributions and unsustainable practices should provide assistance to vulnerable communities, particularly those in the Global South, who experience disproportionate impacts despite their minimal contribution. Unlike mitigation and adaptation focused on future impacts, climate reparations address present damage. While the concept of climate reparations has gained mainstream traction recently, it remains a contentious topic requiring a clear explanation and historical grounding. This review defines the concept of climate reparation. It highlights the observed disparity in vulnerability, wherein nations with substantial emissions may experience less severe impacts compared to developing countries. The review scrutinizes the growing reparations movement and supporting research, discussing reparations as a strategy to rectify colonial legacies, foster resilience, and redefine climate action. Finally, the paper acknowledges existing challenges and criticisms associated with climate reparations.