The nature of global environmental politics is increasingly transnational. As international integration amplifies and our world continues to globalize, the actions of one state has environmental effects that go beyond political boundaries. While it is each state’s responsibility and jurisdiction to protect their resources, the ecological system does not follow a clear set of borders. Nations often share natural resources like rivers or the ambient air. In order to protect these resources and mitigate environmental problems states must convene on a global scale to address issues of transnational concern.
We must understand that nature is a complex set of interrelated ecosystems. Due to human activity we have decreased earth’s ability to regulate these systems, and the consequences are felt worldwide. If dust storms due to desertification in northern China create pollution, reduce visibility, and cause respiratory problems in the United States, then international environmental discussions are necessary. International regimes and non-state actors are helping to facilitate these crucial discussions and generate solutions.
The growth of international regimes implies that governments are not cooperating globally to produce concrete solutions. Often states refuse to give up some sovereignty, autonomy, or simply lack political will. Thus, international actors serve to close the gap between potential and actual international environmental actions. These bodies serve to set the agenda for policy making, implementation, and formulation. Using these mechanisms international regimes advocate for environmental action, influence policy debates, and contribute to global governance.
Not only are the actions and goals of non-state actors international in scale but they are also developing global networks. Often these non governmental bodies bypass national efforts and operate through international policy. Multi-lateral environmental agreements are an example of transnational efforts by non-state actors, such as the Kyoto Protocol, the Stockholm Convention, and the Montreal Protocol.
Globalization has driven technology and innovation; increased our spatial reach of communication; and extended the scope of international trade, finance, and investment. With all these advancements we have also succeeded in degrading our environment. As our society continues to become interrelated the consequences of our actions will have frequent international environmental implications. With transnational actors elevating environmental issues to the international stage, environmental protection can be global in scale.
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