Experts and academics are expressing concern over the European Union’s recent decision to impose import restrictions on China’s green energy products and technologies. They argue that such measures could hinder global efforts towards sustainability and the energy transition.
Michael Spence, a Nobel laureate in economics, highlighted China’s significant role in advancing solar energy, electric vehicles (EVs), and battery technology. In a recent interview with the South China Morning Post, Spence criticized Western countries for blocking China’s exports of these crucial components in the shift towards cleaner energy sources. “The cost of that is very high in terms of the sustainability agenda,” he warned.
The restrictions imposed by the EU have raised concerns about potential setbacks in global sustainability initiatives. Experts emphasize that cooperation and open trade in green technologies are essential for accelerating the global energy transition and combating climate change.
By limiting access to China’s advanced green technologies, there is a risk of increasing costs and slowing down the deployment of renewable energy solutions worldwide. Academics urge policymakers to consider the broader implications of such trade barriers on global environmental goals.
Reference(s):
EU limiting China's green technology imports a mistake: experts
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