In this issue of Open Space, we look at the key ideas and some of the concrete proposals for what is being called a Green New Deal (GND), a set of policies and initiatives designed to rapidly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to a more just and sustainable way of life.

Popularised by politicians such as Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in the United States, organisations in Canada are also seeking ways to formulate and implement a Canadian Green New Deal. We examine why a rapid transition to carbon neutrality is an urgent necessity, how the GND might accomplish this goal, how it includes broader concerns of social and ecological justice, and possible difficulties and limitations to GND proposals. We conclude by suggesting ways to advocate for a GND at a local and national level.