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For a just transition to green energy, tribes need more than money

Summary

Kimberly Yazzie, a Diné researcher at Stanford University, emphasizes the importance of more than just financial support for Indigenous communities in transitioning to green energy. In a recent article published in Science, Yazzie advocates for relationship building, research, and consultation to ensure equitable and culturally sensitive development of renewable energy projects on tribal lands. The article proposes solutions such as flexible application deadlines, increased access to updated information, and resources for building tribal infrastructure. Collaborators like Clara Pratte stress the need for community involvement and cultural competency in project development. Despite federal funding availability, challenges remain in ensuring tribal engagement and meaningful participation in the green energy transition beyond the current administration's support.

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