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51. Governing in Hard Times Conference: The Climate Emergency and the Green Transition

Author:
Karl Pike, James Meadway, Holly Rowden, and Ryan Jude
Publication Date:
06-2023
Content Type:
Video
Institution:
Mile End Institute, Queen Mary University of London
Abstract:
In light of the IPCC's recent warning that the 1.5 degree target for global warming will be breached by 2028, this panel explored how a centre-left government would tackle the ongoing Climate Emergency. The panellists considered how it might minimise the political and economic blowback to the disruptions of the Green Transition, recent changes to the Labour Party's Green Prosperity Pledge to spend £28bn a year on the transition, and the role that the private sector should - or be encouraged - to play. Chair: Dr Karl Pike (Deputy Director of the Mile End Institute) Panel: Dr James Meadway (Former Director of the Progressive Economy Forum) Holly Rowden (Policy Advisor at Green Alliance UK) Councillor Ryan Jude (Programme Director for the Green Finance Institute and Cabinet Member for Climate Action and Biodiversity at the City of Westminster Council)
Topic:
Climate Change, Government, Domestic Politics, and Green Transition
Political Geography:
United Kingdom and Europe

52. Migration Drivers in Carbon-intensive Regions in the EU

Author:
Stefan Jestl and Roman Römisch
Publication Date:
11-2023
Content Type:
Working Paper
Institution:
The Vienna Institute for International Economic Studies (WIIW)
Abstract:
The paper analyses drivers of migration in carbon-intensive and non-carbon-intensive regions in the EU. Using a mix of econometric methods, such as spatial panel and spatial cross-sectional methods, as well as geographically weighted regressions on data for EU NUTS-2 and NUTS-3 regions, the results indicate that particularly carbon-intensive regions in Central and Eastern Europe are not only challenged by a potential decline in carbon-intensive employment but also by outward migration flows that could diminish their prospects for longer-term economic prosperity. From a policy point of view, the results indicate that policies focusing on the replacement of the lost jobs in carbon-intensive industries might not be enough for the carbon-intensive regions in Central and Eastern Europe. Instead, these regions need a simultaneous package of additional policies to improve their attractiveness.
Topic:
Migration, European Union, Carbon Emissions, Green Transition, Regional Development, and Regional Migration
Political Geography:
Europe

53. Unlocking Global Gateway towards the Green Transition

Author:
Marie Dejonghe
Publication Date:
07-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
EGMONT - The Royal Institute for International Relations
Abstract:
In December 2021, the president of the European Commission Ursula Von der Leyen unveiled Global Gateway. With an investment package of 300 billion euros, compromising both public and private funds, the Global Gateway seeks to accelerate the green and digital infrastructure development. By adopting this multifaceted approach, Global Gateway strives to transcend traditional dependency dynamics and encourage equal partnerships. At the core of the Global Gateway’s initiatives lies a strong commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement. Recognizing the pressing need for sustainable development, the strategy aims to integrate these global frameworks into every facet of its initiatives. However, there are concerns about the effectiveness of the project and the partnerships it aims to establish. Therefore, it remains to be seen whether the Global Gateway and its proposed collaborations will be fit for purpose as the project is facing lingering issues that may counter its objectives.
Topic:
Climate Change, Infrastructure, Green Transition, and Sustainable Development
Political Geography:
Europe

54. Civil Society Organizations and Just Transition in the Middle East and North Africa Challenges and Opportunities

Author:
Shady Khalil, Saker El Nour, Rayan Kassem, Kanj Hamade, and Clémentine Lienard
Publication Date:
12-2023
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Arab Reform Initiative (ARI)
Abstract:
The ongoing climate, political, economic, and social crises across the Middle East and North Africa have made engaging in a collective process of transition to a more just and sustainable economic and environmental model an absolute necessity. In order to build such a future, there is a need to address key topics such as water access, food security and sovereignty, and energy transition through a multifaceted perspective combining ecological, social, economic, and political lenses. Hence the notion of “just transition”, which has been taken up by some governments, civil society actors, and even some private entities, although they seldom agree on what constitutes such a transition or how it can be implemented in the Middle East and North Africa. Ongoing international events and processes have also affected perspectives on just transition, though the region and its priorities often seem marginalized in such conversations. Our conference sought to address the questions of what exactly would constitute a just transition in the Middle East and North Africa (notably when it comes to access to food and water justice) given the myriad of challenges and the restrictive spaces for mobilization, notably for marginalized communities. In addition, it will explore who decides and sets the agenda for just transition in the region and how civil society organizations (CSOs) can mobilize and work with local communities towards the achievement of a more inclusive process. The dynamics between local and international actors will be explored, notably the question of how the international community can support environmental CSOs in developing a homegrown agenda that is responsive to local needs. Finally, the issue of reframing the narrative around the needed changes for a sustainable future in the region will be explored through the lens of strengthening collaborations with journalists to push for an increase in public awareness of those matters.
Topic:
Environment, Civil Society Organizations, and Green Transition
Political Geography:
Middle East and North Africa

55. MENA and the Global Energy Conundrum

Author:
Rabah Arezki and Adnan Mazarei
Publication Date:
01-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Center for Global Development (CGD)
Abstract:
The Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) is addicted to fossil fuels, but so too is the rest of the world economy. Solutions to the energy transition have thus to be found in a coordinated global shift in both the supply and demand for fossil fuels and clean(er) energy, where multilateral institutions can play an important role. These institutions could help bolster international technology transfers to MENA, as well as scale up investment and trade in clean energy to facilitate the global energy transition. Given the potential in MENA for solar power, the region could remain a global hub, this time for clean energy.
Topic:
Climate Finance, Economy, Fossil Fuels, Energy, and Green Transition
Political Geography:
Middle East and North Africa

56. The JETPs of South Africa and Indonesia: A Blueprint for the Move Away from Coal?

Author:
Annika Seiler, Hannah Brown, and Samuel Matthews
Publication Date:
07-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Center for Global Development (CGD)
Abstract:
The Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETPs) are a novel approach to intensifying ongoing efforts toward carbon neutrality, combining country-led strategies to decarbonize the energy sector and addressing development priorities resulting from the ensuing structural transformation with focused, long-term, and plurilateral partnerships. The launches of the $8.5 billion JETP for South Africa in 2021 and the $20.0 billion JETP for Indonesia in 2022 provide momentum for this effort. However, the legacies of coal-based power and modest renewable energy deployment in both countries present key challenges in the areas of political economy, policy alignment, finance, and supply chain development. This paper consolidates available information about these two JETPs and analyzes the approaches taken by South Africa and Indonesia, with the aim of providing a thought framework for these JETPs. It seeks to identify risks and gaps that could obstruct these JETPs’ advancement and to assess whether these JETPs can serve as blueprints for other countries looking to accelerate their move away from coal. Further, this paper highlights complementary action that could enhance the effectiveness of these JETPs and guide the development of similar partnerships in the future. The paper finds that while the JETPs for South Africa and Indonesia appear to deliver a blueprint for moving away from coal in their respective contexts, barriers, risks, and gaps call into question whether the targets can be delivered at the planned pace and scale.
Topic:
Climate Change, Climate Finance, Renewable Energy, Energy, and Green Transition
Political Geography:
Africa, Indonesia, South Africa, and Southeast Asia

57. A Driver of Green Transition or a Colonial Tailing Dump: Political Discourse on the Jadar Project

Author:
Luka Šterić
Publication Date:
10-2023
Content Type:
Commentary and Analysis
Institution:
Belgrade Centre for Security Policy (BCSP)
Abstract:
The aim of this study is to analyse the political debate surrounding the Jadar Project. It will present the development of the debate, the key actors, and the dominant discourses that formulated it. The first section of the study is dedicated to understanding the wider context and importance of the project, both in Serbia and globally. In the second, we will present the three stages of the development of the discourse on the Jadar Project so far. We will then go into a detailed analysis of the actors and narratives that have guided the political debate. Finally, in the last section, we will look at the consequences of the debate on the political arena in Serbia, as well as the possible future of the discourse on this project and environmental topics in general.
Topic:
Development, Environment, and Green Transition
Political Geography:
Europe and Serbia

58. Green Hydrogen's Contributions to the Energy Transition: Perspectives and Prerequisites

Author:
Rafaela Guedes, Gregório Cruz Araújo Maciel, Agnes da Costa, André Bello, Cameron Mathie, Fiona Simon, Jorge Camargo, and Luis Viga
Publication Date:
02-2023
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Brazilian Center for International Relations (CEBRI)
Abstract:
Green hydrogen can potentially offer a decisive contribution to achieve the carbon neutrality required to implement a low carbon economy, which is one of the goals of the Paris Agreement and of other environmental efforts. The event “Green Hydrogen’s Contributions to the Energy Transition: Perspectives and Prerequisites”, organised by CEBRI in partnership with the Australian Embassy, aimed at exploring the perspectives and conditions for hydrogen to serve as a strategic energy vector, focusing specifically on using that technology to store energy cleanly, to produce derivatives, and as an energy source in the absence of more efficient electrification alternatives. This report will summarise the main inputs gleaned from the debate and the resulting recommendations. In May 2022, CEBRI produced a Whitepaper on hydrogen opportunities for energy transition, which gives a first overview of potential uses of hydrogen and of the progress of implementation of that technology in Brazil. This report will complement and update that initial diagnosis.
Topic:
Climate Change, Science and Technology, Carbon Emissions, Hydrogen, Green Transition, and Energy Transition
Political Geography:
South Asia and Brazil

59. The Green Transformation of Europe: challenges, opportunities, and the way forward

Author:
Phoebe Koundouri, Konstantinos Dellis, and Angelos Plataniotis
Publication Date:
12-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP)
Abstract:
This paper delves into the multifaceted impacts of climate change on Europe. It examines the immediate risks, including infrastructure damage and health crises, and explores the broader socio-economic consequences. The paper highlights Europe’s strategic responses, such as the European Green Deal, and its efforts at pioneering innovative, sustainable solutions. Key initiatives like the Net-Zero Cities program and the role of Public-Private Partnerships are discussed, and the need for holistic, cross-sector collaboration emphasized. The paper also addresses the financial mechanisms and regulatory frameworks crucial for supporting the green transition. Ultimately, the paper underscores the EU’s commitment to a sustainable, resilient future, balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship. The summer of 2023 marked record-high temperatures, illustrating the urgent challenge posed by climate change. Climate change poses immediate risks including infrastructure damage and health crises, but also presents opportunities for green technology and sustainable economic growth. The European Green Deal sets ambitious emissions reduction targets, employing strategies like REPOWER-EU to enhance energy security and reduce dependency on fossil fuels. Greece is making strides in renewable energy and climate laws, but challenges remain, particularly in phasing out lignite and fossil fuel reliance. Massive investment increases are needed to meet climate commitments, with the EU deploying financial instruments like the European Green Deal Investment Plan and Horizon Europe. The EU has adopted a holistic approach with initiatives like European Missions and Net-Zero Cities focusing on collaborative, cross-sector efforts to achieve sustainable development. The UN SDSN Global Climate Hub offers scientific, human-centric solutions for a climate-neutral future, emphasizing collaboration and sustainable pathways. The EU demonstrates a strong commitment to a holistic, sustainable future, balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility.
Topic:
Climate Change, Infrastructure, Public-Private Partnership, Green Transition, and Net Zero
Political Geography:
Europe

60. Against the flow: Europe’s role in kickstarting Algeria’s green transition

Author:
Andrew Farrand
Publication Date:
10-2022
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR)
Abstract:
Russia’s war on Ukraine has reshaped European energy markets and lent new urgency to the EU’s decarbonisation plans, altering the incentives of the bloc’s energy partners. Surging demand for Algeria’s oil and gas exports has temporarily undercut pressure for domestic reform, including in the energy sector. But growing local energy consumption and European plans to reduce fossil fuel imports in favour of renewables threaten Algeria’s rentier system. The country’s leaders have taken only minimal steps to build renewable energy capacity and remain fixated on raising hydrocarbon investment. While Algeria has little spare capacity to increase its hydrocarbon exports in the short term, it holds far more promise for Europe as a long-term partner in renewable energy. Europe’s ambitious climate goals, deep pockets, and technical expertise make it well placed to help Algeria kick-start a robust energy transition – if the country chooses to go along. At a high-level energy dialogue this month, EU and Algerian officials will convene for the first of many discussions to reshape the future of their energy partnership.
Topic:
Climate Change, Oil, European Union, Gas, Exports, and Green Transition
Political Geography:
Europe and Algeria