Decarbonizing and Decolonizing Economics – Can the Two be Done Simultaneously?
Paper Session
Saturday, Jan. 7, 2023 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM (CST)
- Chair: Ariane Agunsoye, Goldsmiths, University of London
Decolonizing Development and Ecology
Abstract
In the Global South, many contradictions have become increasingly noticeable between the development imperative and the efforts to address climate change. Some scholars argue for the necessary integration of sustainability lens into the existing development projects orchestrated by influential development agencies to help prevent unintended long-term ecological destruction (Hickel 2019; Frame et.al 2021). Others, based on empirical studies, point out that the merger between development and climate change projects have only led to worsening results on both fronts (Scoville-Simonds et.al 2020). So far, most critical studies have focused on the contradiction between adaptation efforts and the mainstream development imperative that has been inflicting poor regions. However, mitigation efforts were assumed to be more applicable for relatively more developed regions and hence their issues were underexamined. This paper centers on China, a semi-periphery country in the world-system (Wallerstein 1976; Li 2005), to examine the contradictions manifested in its mitigation efforts within the mainstream development framework.The Challenges with Definitions and Measurement of "Green" and Social Infrastructure
Abstract
Infrastructure is a key component of the economy. It acts as an enabler of inclusion and higher productivity and a catalyst in ensuring access to opportunities and quality of life. It also plays a key role in achieving environmental goals, with sectors such as energy, mining and transportation infrastructure being a big part of the emissions system. Currently there is no internationally agreed definition of infrastructure, and different countries produce estimates largely informed by functional interpretations of what can be measured in infrastructure. The dominant definition is informed by the agendas of large (Western) economies, focusing on transport, energy, mining, telecommunications, water, waste and sewerage. Further, there is no agreement of what comprises "green" infrastructure. As a result, what is measured as infrastructure varies, leading to a patched, bias understanding of development and persistent economic and social inequalities.The lack of agreed definitions offers both opportunities and challenges. In this presentation we will assess different approaches to defining infrastructure and how these affect countries' growth and inclusion potential differently, by virtue of the sectors included in the measurement. To contrast this, we present an augmented definition of infrastructure that goes beyond this narrow definition of infrastructure that can disadvantage developing economies. In this, we place emphasis on social infrastructure (healthcare, childcare, care of the elderly, education) with strong gendered dimension, as a vehicle for low emission growth, better access to opportunities and lower social and economic inequality.
Citations, Funding and Influence in Energy Policy Research on Developing Countries
Abstract
Energy research seeking to influence policy in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is often funded by – and conceptualised by authors in – institutions from high-income countries (HICs). Research agendas and policy recommendations determined in HICs potentially yield the most influence on policymaking in LMICs. This leaves a multidimensional gap in how LMICs frame, evidence and enact policies. An analysis of bibliometric data from the Web of Science database reveals the existence of a cycle of imbalances across research practices. Most scientific articles recommending energy policy for LMICs have a primary author based in a HIC, funded by a HIC institution. The number of citations articles receive increases with the GDP of the country of primary author. Funders support authors based in countries of the same income band or higher. These outcomes show the need for revising research practices and funding policies to place local actors and knowledge at the heart of energy policy research, to allow for high-impact policymaking in LMICs.JEL Classifications
- B5 - Current Heterodox Approaches
- O1 - Economic Development