Renewable energy transition: outsourcing of environmental pressures or an opportunity for (sustainable) development in the Global South?
Dr. Tim Wegenast
Countries’ efforts to implement so-called green growth policies and transition towards renewable energy systems will increase international demand for particular commodities, including lithium, coltan, nickel, copper, and gold. According to optimistic voices, decarbonization attempts and the transition to cleaner energy sources have the potential to spark more sustainable forms of socio-economic development in the Global South. A more critical perspective points to the consolidation of asymmetric global power relations and unequal exchange, outsourcing of environmental pressure, and more local social conflict. In this session, we will review the main arguments of both camps and discuss the overall feasibility of green growth strategies.
Datum: 20.11.2023