Energy Justice Amid the Transition: The Role of the Humanities in Fostering Environmental Awareness and Equitable Benefits

Abstract

Indonesia’s energy transition involves social, cultural, and ethical challenges alongside technical change. Despite relatively high public awareness of environmental issues and climate change, a gap persists between awareness and action supporting the transition. This study examined the role of the humanities, encompassing narrative, cultural representation, ethical awareness, and public participation, in fostering environmental concern and promoting equitable benefit distribution. A descriptive qualitative approach combined literature review and content analysis of scholarly journal articles, books, government policy documents, and interview data from relevant informants. Four principal themes emerged: the disparity between societal values and actions; the role of local narratives and cultural values in cultivating environmental concern; limited inclusivity in community participation in renewable energy projects; and the need for more equitable energy policies. These findings frame the energy transition as a social process in which humanities perspectives can help connect technical policies with communities’ social realities. The study highlights the importance of culturally grounded environmental engagement, inclusive participation, and attention to equity in transition governance. It contributes to the development of a conceptual framework integrating the humanities into energy justice studies and offers policy guidance for stakeholders seeking a more humane, participatory, and equitable energy transition in Indonesia.