The Economics and Politics of Climate Change

This volume compiles insights from climate change policy experts, analyzing economic factors, negotiation dynamics, and differing global perspectives, while exploring policy options and institutional frameworks for effective climate agreements.

The Economics and Politics of Climate Change compiles insights from leading experts in climate change policy, focusing on the economic analysis and negotiations at the United Nations Climate Change Conference, particularly in Copenhagen. As the Kyoto Protocol's initial period concludes in 2012, the need for a revised international framework for climate agreements becomes critical. Despite enthusiasm from various political and environmental groups, the underlying economic and political complexities present significant challenges. This book offers a measured examination of these obstacles, delving into the economic implications of climate change and the motivations of key players like the US, EU, and China.

The volume is structured into four parts, starting with an overview of the primary issues surrounding climate change economics. This section reassesses conventional wisdom, presenting new insights that challenge established narratives. The second part explores the geographical disparities in the costs and benefits of climate change, highlighting the differing perspectives of regions such as Africa, China, the US, and Europe. These discussions lay the groundwork for understanding the diverse interests that must be reconciled in pursuit of a new global agreement.

In the third part, the book examines global policy instruments, moving beyond the often nationally focused literature. It discusses various approaches, including trading, research and development, and more radical unilateral options like geo-engineering. Finally, the fourth part addresses the institutional frameworks necessary for effective climate governance, drawing on lessons from past initiatives and proposing new organizational structures to support future efforts.