GEOPOLITICAL RIVALRY HINDERS GREEN TECHNOLOGY PROGRESS
KUALA LUMPUR, June 20, 2024 - The increasing environmental degradation and climate change crises in several parts of the world are a stark reminder that the adoption of green technology is crucial to mitigate these disasters. However, geopolitical rivalry and conflict related to China's rise as an economic superpower is hindering the spread of green technology.
Fires in California and Air Pollution in India
The recent devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, which have ravaged over 3 million acres, far surpassing the size of San Francisco, are considered more preventable than its natural counterparts. While Hurricane Katrina was a major disaster in 2005, the current LA fires are seen as a preventable crisis made worse by mismanagement and human factors.
On the other hand, Delhi, India's capital city, is grappling with an even more deadly silent threat - air pollution. With estimated costs of over US$100 billion annually on lost productivity, work absences, and premature deaths, the full impact of this issue has yet to be comprehensively studied.
US-China Geopolitical Feud
The blame game in LA over the historic fires has taken on partisan tones, with a focus on leadership and policy weaknesses. However, climate change and extreme weather events are seen by scientific opinion as major causative factors.
In a broader sense, despite differing views on the role of climate change, there is no disagreement that green technology can make a positive difference. The grim reality for the world is that societies and countries everywhere must cope with unprecedented proliferation of crises caused by their own actions, which are becoming increasingly costly and devastating.
Lack of Green Technology Adoption
The slow adoption of green technology by many governments and industries is due to several reasons, including limited knowledge and awareness, policies and regulations lagging behind technological advancements, inadequate supportive infrastructure, high initial investment costs, and political pushback.
This phenomenon is exemplified in the US response to China's dominance in green technology. High tariffs and exclusionary policies have blocked Chinese electric vehicles despite their undeniable environmental advantages over internal combustion engines.
On the other hand, China has been promoting its climate change solutions through investments in renewable energy, carbon capture, and low-emission hydrogen technology, among others. The International Renewable Energy Agency hailed China's position as a leader in the global energy transition.
China's Role in BRICS
Despite this, there is hope on the horizon with the emergence of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) as key players in global politics and economics. This shift could potentially pave the way for green technology advancements worldwide.
As the world grapples with environmental crises, it is essential to recognize that science-based policies are needed more than ever. Despite differing opinions on climate change, one thing remains certain - we have the tools through appropriate green technologies to better manage these crises and build a more sustainable future.