Climate Crisis & Carbon Societies - Workshop Recap
The "Climate Crisis & Carbon Societies" workshop, hosted by the OHPA in collaboration with the University of Central Asia on October 24th, brought together a diverse group of scholars to discuss the multifaceted challenges posed by the climate crisis and the role of carbon societies in this context. The workshop featured several prominent speakers, each contributing unique perspectives on the intersection of energy, governance, and societal dynamics in the face of climate change.
Professor Stephan C. Akut from Universität Hamburg opened the workshop with a presentation titled “The Geopolitical Boomerang: The Return of Politics in Global Climate Governance.” He outlined his research project, which analyzes the failures of global governance over the past twentyfive years in addressing the climate crisis. Akut described a "reality schism" between the pressin climate realities and the inadequate governmental responses, emphasizing that the climate crisis is not merely an ecological issue but one deeply intertwined with social and economic inequalities. He critiqued the notion that all nations are equally affected by the crisis, arguing that the impacts disproportionately affect marginalized communities.
Akut introduced the concept of "Green States," which represents an alternative governance model to the traditional Neoliberal Welfare model. He identified three prototypes of Green States: th European Union, the United States, and China. The EU model combines a social security network with a free market and democratic consensus, while the Chinese model is characterized by authoritarian industrial planning and a long-term geopolitical vision. The American model, on the other hand, is described as distinctly Keynesian, with protectionist policies aimed at fostering a nationalized Green Industrialism. He warned that the geopolitical implications of the climate crisis could destabilize democracies, with the race for green technologies shaping future global power dynamics.
Following Akut, Professor Peter Wagner from the University of Central Asia presented on “Societies with and without Carbon: Central Asia in Global Context.” He discussed the historical and comparative sociology of fossil fuel use, focusing on the resource dynamics of Central Asian countries. Wagner highlighted the stark contrast between resource-rich nations like Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, and resource-poor countries such as Tajikistan and Kurdistan. He pointed out that the legacy of the Soviet Union continues to influence the economic structures o these nations, leading to a reliance on extractive industries.
Wagner introduced the concept of a "triple crisis" in the region, encompassing resource exhaustion, environmental degradation, and demands for resource sovereignty from the Global South. He noted that while Central Asia has abundant energy resources in summer, winter shortages occur due to outdated hydroelectric infrastructure. He concluded with a hopeful perspective, suggesting that resource-poor states could benefit from implementing renewable energy solutions like solar power which could enhance economic development and social mobility.
Dr. Gustavo Andreao, a post-doctoral researcher at the Center for Critical Imagination, followed with insights into the implications of carbon societies on global governance. He emphasized the need for a paradigm shift in how societies approach energy consumption and production, advocating for a more integrated understanding of climate governance that considers social, economic, and environmental factors.
The workshop also featured Professor Giuliano Garavini from the University of Rome, who examined the historical context of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and the oil crises of the 1970s. He discussed the importance of resource conservation and the need for a non-proliferation treaty in the context of reducing oil consumption by 60% by 2050.
Throughout the workshop, speakers underscored the urgency of addressing the climate crisis through innovative governance models and collaborative efforts. They highlighted the interconnectedness of energy, politics, and society, advocating for a comprehensive approach to climate solutions that transcends traditional boundaries. The discussions emphasized the importance of rethinking energy policies, fostering social alliances, and prioritizing sustainable practices to navigate the complexities of the climate crisis effectively.
In conclusion, the "Climate Crisis & Carbon Societies" workshop provided a platform for critical dialogue on the challenges and opportunities presented by the climate crisis. The insights shared by the speakers underscored the need for a multifaceted approach to governance that integrates ecological, social, and economic considerations, paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable future.
The full talk as well as the subsequent discussion is available to view on YouTube here:
Part I: https://youtu.be/JHllyN3DGRU
Part II: https://youtu.be/Ol5TlV_1obQ