Hello everyone!
I'd like to share with you some books that have really opened my eyes to the world of climate governance, particularly in relation to deforestation governance. These readings have been instrumental in shaping my understanding of how we tackle climate issues both in Europe and globally.
When it comes to selecting books for my reading list, I rely heavily on personal preference. How do I choose? Well, to be honest, it's often a chance encounter with authors and topics that pique my interest. But what's most important in my search process is having access to online libraries.
- Handbook on European Union Climate Change Policy and Politics by Tim Rayner, Kacper Szulecki, Andrew J. Jordan, and Sebastian Oberthür
This handbook isn’t your run-of-the-mill read. It’s a treasure trove of insights into European Union climate policy and politics, penned by some of the brightest minds in the field. From understanding the EU’s role in global climate governance to exploring the intricate nexus between climate and politics, this handbook covers it all.
In the introductory chapter, “The Global Importance of EU Climate Policy”, the editors of the Handbook paint a compelling picture of the European Union’s pivotal role in shaping global climate governance. Rayner, Jordan and Oberthür highlight the EU’s historical and current status as one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases. Despite significant progress towards renewable energy in the electricity sector in many European countries, the EU remains heavily dependent on fossil fuels, which account for around 70% of its primary energy mix. This dichotomy underlines the urgent need for transformative action to consolidate the EU’s position as a global leader in the fight against climate change.
- European Foreign Policy in a Decarbonizing World: Challenges and Opportunities by Sebastian Oberthür, Dennis Tänzler, Emily Wright, Gauri Khandekar
As the world moves towards decarbonization post-Paris Agreement, this book dives deep into the complexities of EU relations with major fossil-fuel exporting nations. Through meticulous analysis, it sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in our journey towards a greener future.
The authors systematically delve into the unique dependence on fossil fuels exhibited by Nigeria, Indonesia, Azerbaijan, Colombia, Qatar, and Canada. They meticulously analyse the broader political and security landscape of these nations, their current relations with the EU, and the potential pathways for steering them toward decarbonization.
- Fixing the Climate: Strategies for an Uncertain World by Charles Sabel and David Victor
If you’re looking for inspiration, look no further. Sabel and Victor’s book champions a grassroots approach to climate action, showcasing how local initiatives can drive global change. It’s a compelling reminder that solutions to our biggest challenges often start small, and it’s up to small entities at the local level to make them happen.
The authors of this book shine a spotlight on the uncertainties and risks inherent in the profound transformation of economies. Inspired by the success of the Montreal Protocol, they highlight it as a shining example of how transboundary and transnational climate-related issues can be effectively and coherently addressed.
- EU climate diplomacy Politics, law and negotiations edited by Stephen Monas and Vassilis Ntousas
This book lays down to what extent the European Union has been actively involved in the global effort to combat climate change. It argues that it has promoted the use of climate-friendly technologies, such as renewable energy, and has fostered international cooperation through diplomatic channels, including the United Nations Climate Convention and the Paris Agreement.
Since this book was published in 2018, it brings forward the main challenges and issues with the change in US administration. The athors argue that this is the main reason why the EU’s role in climate diplomacy has become even more significant. This book explores the EU’s important role in climate diplomacy, examining its interaction with internal politics, legal frameworks, and contributions to climate technology diplomacy.
- Green Trade and Fair Trade in and with the EU Process-Based Measures within the EU Legal Order by Laurens Ankersmit
This book explores the complex landscape of process-based measures under EU law. It examines how EU rules constrain the freedom of the EU, its Member States, and private entities to adopt measures to protect social and environmental interests abroad. While the permissibility of such measures has primarily been examined within the World Trade Organisation (WTO), their implications extend to the EU’s internal market system.
Ankersmit identifies three fundamental challenges associated with process-based measures from an EU law perspective: extraterritoriality, unilateralism, and the complex interplay of competitive and democratic concerns arising from private regulation. In highlighting these challenges, the book provides valuable insights into the dynamic intersection of trade, sustainability and regulatory governance in the EU context.
