Bridging the Gap: Sustainable Development, Technology Transfer and the Market in the Age of Climate Change: Strengthening the Case for Global Co-Operation
62 Pages Posted: 7 Jul 2013 Last revised: 14 Jul 2014
Date Written: April 22, 2013
Abstract
The dissertation argues that the current international climate change framework is unworkable. This is tackled by reversing the present position and requiring developing countries to also contribute to alleviating the climate change challenge. However, it is submitted that this should be done in a fair and equitable manner, reflecting their differing historical stake in harmful atmospheric emissions. In this context, a distinction is made between economic development, as the improvement in human capacities and conditions, and economic growth, representing the quantitative increase in output of goods and services.
The paper maintains that eradicating poverty and attaining environmental stability go hand in hand. To incorporate this in practice, the author proposes three time-frames for resolving the problem. Firstly, in the short-term, the implementation of a finely-tuned calculation method to determine each country’s contributions is recommended. Secondly, this formula requires a robust institution to enforce it, which is the medium-term proposal of the thesis. Thirdly, the long-term recommendation of the author advocates reconsidering the existing growth-led economic model. This enables combining historical responsibility with the need for development.
Keywords: Development Law, Climate Change, Game Theory, Environmental Economics
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