A multi-scalar approach to just transitions: Logging bans and forest transition in the Greater Khingan Range, China

This study aims to understand how a multi-scalar framework can identify regions,
firms, and individuals disproportionately affected by forest transition, marginalized in
decision-making, or neglected by transition policies. This study conceptualizes just
transitions as a complex, multi-scalar process occurring at regional, firm, and individual
levels. The regional level entails the broad socio-economic and spatial transformation of
entire areas and cities, including economic diversification, infrastructure development,
and landscape restoration. The firm level pertains to the transformation of affected
enterprises (e.g., decarbonizing existing operations or developing new business strategies
compatible with carbon neutrality). The individual level refers to the transformation of
workers and local residents’ livelihoods, lifestyles, living conditions, locations, and
identities. We will analyze the implications of the transition processes in terms of
distributional, procedural, and recognitional justice. While each level has its own
transformation dynamics and justice implications, the levels are also interrelated
through top-down and bottom-up dynamics.
This project also broadens the debate on just transitions beyond its narrow focus on
energy transitions by engaging with the forest sector. The transition from deforestation
to reforestation is crucial for achieving carbon neutrality. Since introducing a complete
logging ban on natural forest in 2016, China has tipped toward a reforestation transition.
However, previous studies on China’s forest transition have rarely considered its social
justice aspects. This study draws on the case of the Greater Khingan Range in northeast
China, where the logging ban has profoundly impacted regions, firms, and individuals.
In sum, this study will (1) advance just transition theory with a multi-scalar perspective,
(2) develop the justice aspect of forest transitions, and (3) recommend knowledge and
policy practices to ensure a just forest transition. The empirical work will be carried out
at three sites in the Greater Khingan Range: Jiagedaqi (the region’s administrative
center), Huzhong (a former timber production site), and Mohe (a border town on the
China-Russia border). We will conduct 150 interviews with government officials,
managers, forestry workers, and local residents. We will also organize three deliberative
workshops to collaboratively explore the concept of a just transition. Finally, we will a
comprehensive database of the various forms of forest transition measures at the
regional, firm, and individual levels in China. The PI undertook initial preparatory work
for this study in 2020 and 2022 to obtain a preliminary understanding of the situation,
evaluate the practicality of the research, and develop local contacts and collaboration.