The Geopolitics of Green Colonialism: Global Justice and Ecosocial Transitions

The time for denial is over, and the Global North is shifting to renewables, electric cars, carbon trading, and hydrogen to respond to the climate crisis. However, these solutions are leading to new environmental injustices and green colonialism. The green growth and clean energy plans of the Global North require the large-scale extraction of strategic minerals from the Global South, sacrificing territories and sustainable ways of inhabiting the world. This book provides a platform for the voices that have been absent in debates around energy and climate in the Global North, offering critiques of green colonialism and exploring alternative pathways toward a liveable and globally just future.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 20 March 2024
Publisher: Pluto Press

The time for denial has come to an end. Across the Global North, a consensus has emerged on how to address the climate crisis: by embracing renewable energy sources, electric vehicles, carbon trading, and hydrogen. Green New Deals across Europe and North America aim to reduce emissions while creating new job opportunities. However, beneath the façade of sustainability, these climate solutions are perpetuating new environmental injustices and manifestations of green colonialism. The green growth and clean energy agendas of the Global North necessitate the large-scale extraction of strategic minerals from the Global South. The geopolitics of transition entail sacrificing not only territories but also the very essence of sustainable ways of inhabiting our planet. A new hierarchy in the global energy economy hinders societies in the South from developing sovereign strategies to achieve a dignified life.

This book serves as a platform for the voices that have been notably absent in discussions surrounding energy and climate in the Global North. Drawing from case studies across the Global South, the authors offer critical assessments of green colonialism in its material, political, and symbolic manifestations. They explore the intricate web of interconnectedness that binds the transitions of different world regions within a globalized economy. Furthermore, they propose alternative pathways toward a livable and globally just future for all.

The urgency of addressing the climate crisis cannot be overstated. The consequences of inaction are far-reaching and potentially catastrophic. We must recognize the injustices perpetuated by the current energy and climate systems and work towards transformative change. By amplifying the voices of those who have been marginalized and advocating for a more equitable and sustainable world, we can build a future that is resilient, just, and prosperous for all.

Weight: 308g
Dimension: 140 x 216 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780745349343