Category: Climate Policy & Environment

Main Question: How do Argentina and Brazil balance climate rhetoric with mining policy on critical raw materials? Argument: Despite opposite discourses (Lula’s pro-environment stance vs. Milei’s climate skepticism) both prioritize mining expansion over sustainability. Conclusion: Ideology matters less than material interests. Both governments converge on economic gains, risking the goals of the energy transition.

The environment is a silent victim in conflict that is beaten and abused with long-term consequences, acting as a threat multiplier for the effects of the climate crisis. The destruction of dams is a common theme in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

International Criminal Lawis ineffective at protecting the environment in conflict, perhaps stronger solutionsshould be in place, should the environment have their own rights in conflict?

How can Arctic communities adapt to rapid climate change and growing geopolitical pressure? The Arctic faces compounding threats—from permafrost thaw to militarization—that strain fragile infrastructure and ecosystems. Building resilience requires urgent adaptation, Indigenous leadership, and balancing strategic interests with long-term stability.

How can the EU achieve climate goals while ensuring social equity? Climate action must be both environmentally ambitious and socially just. Stronger cooperation, fair funding, and marine protection are essential pillars.

Is the Northern Sea Route a strategic asset or a climate risk? While the NSR offers economic and geopolitical benefits to Russia and China, it is driven by environmental degradation, undermines multilateral governance, and reinforces fossil fuel reliance. The NSR is not a neutral development—it risks deepening global divisions and worsening the climate crisis.

Can the Arctic become a new economic frontier without sacrificing Indigenous rights and ecosystems? While economic interest in a thawing Arctic grows, Indigenous sovereignty and environmental stability remain under threat. Sustainable development in the Arctic must center Indigenous voices and protect fragile ecosystems from extractive ambitions.

How is a thawing Arctic reshaping global geopolitics? Climate change is unlocking new strategic and economic opportunities in the Arctic, intensifying great power competition among NATO, Russia, and China. Without stronger international cooperation, the Arctic risks becoming a militarized zone of rivalry rather than peaceful development.