Week 10: The green new deal

The New Deal

A response to the Great Depression addressing economic crises and unemployment, also focused on environmental issues. The New Deal was primarily focused on labor investment and notably aimed at restoring 'masculine' identities and bodies

Democratization of Electrification

Significant achievement of the New Deal that made infrastructure accessible to rural and low-income Americans.

Climate Debt

The concept that wealthy countries owe a 'debt' to developing countries for their disproportionate carbon emissions. The concept underscores the ethical dimension of climate change, emphasizing that those who have benefitted most from fossil fuel (wealthy developed countries) use bear greater responsibility for addressing its consequences and aiding those who are most affected (poorer developing countries) 

Green New Deal

Proposal emphasizing significant cuts in greenhouse gas emissions and investments in clean energy. Emphasizes transitioning away from fossil fuels and towards renewable energy like solar and wind . It seeks to ensure marginalized communities—often the most impacted by climate change—benefit from the transition and are included in decision-making processes. Adresses climate change and inequality at the same time since our present economic system is what has led to such large amount of carbon emissions

Just Transition

Ensures support for workers and communities dependent on fossil fuel industries, by retraining programs, financial aid, and economic opportunities in sustainable sectors. Ensures they are not left behind.

Klein’s Capsule Case for a Green New Deal

• It will be a massive job creator, more jobs are now created in the renewable sector

• Paying for it will create a fairer economy

• Taps the power of emergency since majority of people understand the urgency

• It’s procrastination- proof (speaks to the urgency of the climate crisis)

• It’s recession - proof

• Does not force people to choose between the ‘end of the world” and ‘end of the month’

Leap Manifesto

A Canadian proposal advocating for a complete shift to renewable energy by 2050 and opposes new fossil fuels. Recognizes Indigenous sovereignty and emphasizes protecting their land and resources.

Backlash against Carbon Tax

• Push back against renewable energy by the United Conservative Party in Alberta.

• Massive push back against the ‘carbon tax’ and the rise of conservative parties across Canada

Labor Investment

A focus of the New Deal aimed at restoring masculine identities and providing support through work opportunities.

Land Grabs and Land Use

Challenge of the GND; large-scale renewable energy projects demand significant land resources. This could lead to conflicts for use and trigger land grabs, affecting marginalized communites.

Dependence on Mining

The shift towards green energy that relies heavily on materials obtained through mining, which can have negative envirmental impacts, as well as expolitation of labor

Capitalism and Economic Growth

The Green New Deal, is often still situated within a capitalist landscape
and economy thus the growth imperative of capitalism may remain untouched.

Persisting Inequalities

While the GND aims to address climate justice, it is not a cure-all. Structural injustices tied to racism, white supremacy, gender inequality, and class disparities may persist or even complicate the implementation of such a vast project.

Environmental Justice

A movement aimed at promoting equal protection for marginalized and low-income communities affected by environmental policies.

Corporate Taxation

Proposed measure to fund climate and social initiatives through taxation of corporations and the wealthy.