How does anyone replace anyone else when it comes to climate change? Sure, you can develop technology, but the countries who choose not to use it are still spewing their shit into our shared climate.
I think it’s referring to a perceived position as global leader in positive climate action. That with the US losing any hope of effective climate regulation, China could choose a more climate-friendly direction. They can develop technology, and can implement it. China’s CO2 emissions are very significant (this BBC article claims 30% of global emissions), so if it takes aggressive action it could make a serious impact on global emissions.
Due to its global position, it could likely pressure allies or promote the adoption of Chinese green technologies.
I am not saying any of this will happen, but China is certainly not powerless. I do agree that other countries would still be an issue - countries with lax environmental regulations could be cheaper manufactures and divert global manufacturing, lessening the impact of any Chinese action.
The US is dependent on international trade. If they’re the only ones emitting too much, the rest of the world could sanction them, reducing their emissions by collapsing their economy.
With the US making moves on Greenland with no sign of being satisfied after, the EU would probably be up for those sanctions at some point.
How does anyone replace anyone else when it comes to climate change? Sure, you can develop technology, but the countries who choose not to use it are still spewing their shit into our shared climate.
I think it’s referring to a perceived position as global leader in positive climate action. That with the US losing any hope of effective climate regulation, China could choose a more climate-friendly direction. They can develop technology, and can implement it. China’s CO2 emissions are very significant (this BBC article claims 30% of global emissions), so if it takes aggressive action it could make a serious impact on global emissions.
Due to its global position, it could likely pressure allies or promote the adoption of Chinese green technologies.
I am not saying any of this will happen, but China is certainly not powerless. I do agree that other countries would still be an issue - countries with lax environmental regulations could be cheaper manufactures and divert global manufacturing, lessening the impact of any Chinese action.
The US is dependent on international trade. If they’re the only ones emitting too much, the rest of the world could sanction them, reducing their emissions by collapsing their economy.
With the US making moves on Greenland with no sign of being satisfied after, the EU would probably be up for those sanctions at some point.