As world leaders gather at COP29 in Baku to tackle climate change, a new hurdle emerges: green protectionism. 🤝➡️🚧 This trend—where countries impose tariffs or subsidies favoring domestic green industries—risks slowing global climate progress and fracturing international cooperation, experts warn.
Why It Matters
Green tech like EVs and solar panels could slash emissions, but protectionist policies (like the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act’s subsidies or the EU’s carbon border tax) are creating ‘walls’ instead of bridges. 🌉🔋 Higher costs for imported tech mean slower adoption worldwide, while developing nations struggle to compete without financial muscle. 💸
The Domino Effect
🔹 Consumers pay more for green alternatives. 🔹 Innovation stalls without global competition. 🔹 Developing economies fall further behind. 🔹 WTO rules face strain, risking trade wars.
The Bigger Picture
‘It’s like fighting a wildfire with a garden hose,’ says Yi Xin, a Beijing-based commentator. 🔥🚿 With rich nations still missing their $100B/year climate finance pledge, green protectionism could deepen global divides just as unity is needed most.
Time to level the playing field—before the clock runs out. ⏳🌏
