ETVT it is fair to ask developing states to do more to tackle climate change

T1 – Global Issue, it is

Not matter of developed / developing, but is global collective security dilemma based on tragedy of the commons. Therefore all must collectively contribute.

Emissions of developed countries may be high, but is rising from developing, accounting for 95% all increases over last decade.

Esp the case for large developing countries, e.g. China, India, received exemptions from Kyoto protocol, now in top 3 emitters, China most by far (over 13 GT).

As more states develop, level of emissions will rise unchecked and overtake those of developed countries.

T1 – Global Issue, it is not

Developed states bear greater responsibility for this global issue as have greater economic capability to tackle it. Can invest in a crisis most significantly contributed to by their own actions comp to developing countries that couldn’t reap benefits.

Historical emissions of EU and US equal 15% and 16%. India only 3%. Arguably neocolonialism to hold developing states to standard of environmentalism they weren’t held to.

Importance acknowledged by Paris Agreement, as of 2025 pledges $100B/year in climate finance for developing countries, developed states take a leading role, recognising ability to help.

T1 – Global Issue, overall

Developed states equipped to deal with global issue farm ore than developing states, must take a greater responsibility for their significant contribution to worsened climate.

T2 – Development, it is

Climate action and economic growth (development) can be mutually beneficial for growth. Protecting environment can maximise efficiency and security (less privy to recession (oil prices from conflicts), long term gain).

China 2021 8% GDP growth with 28% renewable, 5% GDP growth in 2025 with 12 month decrease in emissions.

Seen in Morocco, consistent 5% GDP growth with largest solar power worth $9B.

Also important considering climate change affects developing nations most e.g. rising sea levels affecting SIDs, extreme weather patterns in Sub Saharan Africa leading to drought and floods requiring 9% national budgets to respond, 5% GDP losses, in their best interest to tackle climate change to prevent further losses, helps sustain development.

T2 – Development, it is not

Climate action unachievable for states seeking to develop.

Dependency theory, developing states trapped by MNCs in developed states to grow GDP by exploitation of raw materials e.g. DRC Diamonds, SAfrica Gold (historically), forced to increase emissions while not having money to invest in renewable energy sources.

Restrictions hinder modernisation theory precedent, where adopting FMC leads to growth e.g. Denmark, developed state with free market economy has 91% renewable energy.

T2 – Development, overall

Developed states are most significant contributors both within and external to country. Therefore not fair to ask exploited developing states to tackle climate change without resources to do so.