There are several arguments that could be made for why developing countries should not immediately stop extracting and using their natural energy resources, even if doing so would align with the climate change policies of developed countries. Here are a few:
- Economic Development: Developing countries often rely heavily on their natural energy resources to power their economies and drive growth. For many of these countries, the extraction and use of fossil fuels represents a significant source of revenue and employment opportunities. By abandoning these resources prematurely, these countries could face economic hardship and a setback in their development efforts.
- Energy Access: Many people in developing countries still lack access to reliable and affordable energy sources. In some cases, the only viable option for these communities is to rely on locally available fossil fuels. If these resources were taken off the table, it could lead to even greater energy poverty and social inequality.
- Technological Advancement: Many developed countries have the resources and infrastructure to transition to cleaner energy sources more quickly, but developing countries may not have the same capacity. Continuing to use fossil fuels could allow these countries to invest in and develop the technology needed to transition to cleaner energy sources over time.
- Historical Responsibility: Developed countries have historically contributed the most to greenhouse gas emissions and have had more time to develop alternatives to fossil fuels. It could be argued that developed countries have a greater responsibility to take action on climate change and should not expect developing countries to make the same sacrifices.
- Sovereignty: Ultimately, each country has the right to decide how to manage its natural resources and pursue its own development goals. Developing countries should have the agency to determine their own energy policies without undue pressure from developed countries.
- Enslavement and Dependency: Most, if not all, of the technologies required to go green are owned by and manufactured in developed countries. Participating in a climate change agenda led by developed countries would mean that developing countries will continue to remain enslaved to developed countries.
It’s worth noting that these arguments are not necessarily mutually exclusive with taking action on climate change. In fact, many experts argue that developing countries can transition to cleaner energy sources while still prioritising economic development and energy access. However, the pace and approach to such transitions should take into account the unique circumstances of each country.
Everyone loves our planet. I hope the above doesn’t make me an anti-climate-change or anti-green person.