Week 10.2 - Climate Crisis and Challenges for Development Flashcards
How did the pandemic reinforce the need for structural transformation?
It underscored the importance of restructuring economies, a need already highlighted by the climate crisis
What trade-off has been highlighted by the pandemic and Russia’s war against Ukraine?
The trade-off between economic efficiency and resilience in the face of shocks
Why is there a push to shorten and diversify supply and value chains?
To reduce vulnerability, lower energy use, and cut greenhouse gas emissions from long-distance transport
Why is there a need to expand local pharmaceutical manufacturing?
To improve resilience, especially through generic drug production in middle-income countries
What other industries are targeted for localised manufacturing as part of circular economy development?
Medical equipment and everyday manufactured goods
Why is there a call to rebuild local and regional agricultural systems?
To reduce reliance on cheap labour, ensure decent livelihoods, and strengthen food system resilience
What ecological buffer is under threat and needs repair?
The buffer zones between natural habitats and human settlements
What lesson has been drawn about long-distance travel during the pandemic?
Much of it is unnecessary for maintaining international cooperation
How have Russia and Israel contributed to global insecurity?
Through systematic destruction of infrastructure in Ukraine and Gaza, following the precedent of US interventions in Iraq and Libya
What has been the impact of great power polarisation on global governance?
It has weakened the United Nations and hindered cooperation on global challenges like climate change
How has military spending shifted since the Ukraine war?
There has been a vast increase in military spending across Europe and the OECD
How have right-wing populist movements responded to climate change policies?
They have opposed climate measures and fuelled discontent around energy, transport, and consumption reforms
What are examples of backlash against green policies in the financial world?
ESG investment standards have faced resistance, such as BP withdrawing from sustainable energy efforts
How has the return of Donald Trump affected climate agreements?
The US withdrew again from the Paris Agreement and the Just Transition Partnership, rejecting science-based policymaking
What are some responses pushing back against populist climate denial?
Mark Carney has led Canada’s green finance resistance, and Germany has increased defence and green infrastructure investment
What is China’s contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions?
China is the largest emitter overall, though not per capita
What leadership has China shown in renewable energy?
By 2030, 60% of global renewable energy capacity will be in China, and it achieved wind/solar goals 6 years early
What milestone has China reached in electric vehicle adoption?
The number of EVs surpassed petrol and diesel vehicles 10 years ahead of schedule
What environmental challenge is associated with digital technology infrastructure like data centres?
They require vast amounts of energy and water for cooling
What does the IPCC say about the 1.5°C climate target?
The window to stay below 1.5°C is closing rapidly and is nearly lost even under the most optimistic scenarios
What is the projected global temperature rise under current emission trajectories?
We are on track for a 3.0°C increase above pre-industrial levels
What risks are posed to small islands and coastal areas by climate change?
One billion people may face coastal hazards by 2060 due to sea level rise
What compromise has been made around ‘loss and damage’?
Agreements have aimed to avoid assigning legal liability to corporations for climate-related damages
How does 1.5°C warming threaten food security?
Through increased droughts, floods, heatwaves, and sea level rise, especially in poorer countries