Energy Justice and Environmental Rehabilitation: Legal Frameworks for a Just Energy Transition

The transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy is not merely an economic or technological shift; it represents a profound legal and ethical challenge. Central to this transformation is energy justice, which demands that the benefits and burdens of energy policies be equitably distributed. This article examines the legal frameworks and policy instruments governing environmental rehabilitation in regions impacted by the legacy of fossil fuel extraction and industrial activities. By integrating interdisciplinary scholarship, international legal instruments, and judicial perspectives from Europe, North America, and emerging economies, the analysis highlights the limitations of traditional doctrines such as the “polluter pays” principle and argues for a comprehensive, hybrid model of accountability. Special attention is given to the multifaceted nature of rehabilitation—from technical remediation to socio-economic renewal—and the ways in which procedural and recognition justice mechanisms can be better integrated into legal systems to support affected communities during a just energy transition.