How can EU trade policy help solve the climate crisis?
28 March 2022, 18:00
Trade agreements negotiated today shape economic relations in the long run. Industries and governments adapt their rules when trading with one another. With every passing month, the gravity of the climate crisis and the current inadequacy of our global response becomes more obvious. So how can the EU push for more climate-friendly practices through its trade policy, namey through trade agreements with third countries?
The EU manages trade relations with third countries in the form of trade agreements. Having an exclusive competence in the field, the EU negotiates in the name of all 27 member states. The EU claims to use trade policy as a vehicle for the promotion of European principles, values, democracy, human rights, the environment and social rights.
Nevertheless, there has been deep criticism of the EU’s recent trade agreements. The envisaged free trade agreement between the EU and the Mercosur countries - Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay - is criticized for its negative impact on the environment and climate. It would increase the import of meat and other agricultural products to the EU and contribute to more emissions, deforestation and soil contamination as long as practices like the burning of the Amazonas continue.
How do EU trade agreements work? How can the EU use trade agreements to push for more climate-friendly practices? How should EU trade agreements be shaped for a more sustainable future?
To discuss these questions, we have the pleasure of welcoming Jan Kristoffersen, an expert on European affairs and trade agreements and how they can contribute to the global sustainable goals. Jan Kristoffersen is a lawyer and is a candidate to the European Parliament for the green party “The Alternative” in Denmark. If you are curious to learn more about how EU trade policy works and discuss with an expert, join us on March 28 at 18:00 (CET). We hope to see you there!
This event is supported by Tuborgfondet and Europanævnet.
