There are many questionable assumptions in the discussion of economic growth. One of them is the idea that governments are able to achieve sustained high growth. Another one is the belief that the solution to pressing financial and social problems centres on higher growth. It is also questionable, however, to say that giving up on economic growth as a paradigm is the necessary condition to tackle the environmental crisis. In actuality, solving such problems is about radical growth in environmental and resource-saving technologies. It is also about radical ‘‘de-growth’’ in products and processes that undermine long-term living and production conditions. This paper describes some best practice cases of ‘‘green growth’’ and the conceptual generalisations given by the OECD and other established institutions in Europe and Asia. It traces the transformation of the concept of ‘‘green growth’’ and evaluates the strategy that accompanies it.
The complex inter linkages between trade and climate change governance are increasingly recognised. Examples in point are emissions trading schemes, border carbon measures, and carbon labelling schemes, and various support measures for clean energy—all climate related policies with possible implications for trade and trade law. Against this background, this information note explores the potential for synergy and cooperation between the trade and climate change regimes. This paper will help those working on climate change to better answer questions such as: How can trade measures better address climate change mitigation? Can current climate response measures restrict trade? And how can a strengthened trade and climate governance make them more constructive?
This book offers a global overview of the present status of action on climate change and on the efforts devoted to develop innovative economic tools. Drawing on the most recent data, this collective book analyses the development of carbon markets in Europe and worldwide and assesses the involvement of major sectors such as agriculture, forestry, transport and housing in the fight against global warming.