How to Decolonize Our Battle Against Climate Change
Almost everything we buy affects the environment and the people who rely on it. Many products contribute to climate change and environmental damage, yet companies often claim their products are eco-friendly, making it hard to see the real impact. Wealthy countries accept the idea that carbon emissions are just a phase we all go through and that eventually, everyone will progress and overcome it. This belief is convenient for rich nations but ignores the fact that some places suffer more so that others can stay clean.
This imbalance is called “carbon colonialism.” It’s a modern version of an old system where resources are taken from poorer countries and used to benefit richer ones. These practices have been in place since the days of colonialism, and they continue to harm newly independent countries. Exporting raw materials doesn’t add much value to the countries that do it, leaving them at a disadvantage compared to richer nations that process and sell finished goods.
To truly address climate change, we need to change how we measure and control emissions. Instead of focusing on national production, we should consider the emissions caused by what we consume. We also need to apply strict environmental regulations to global supply chains. By doing this, we can start to dismantle the global systems that benefit rich countries at the expense of poorer ones.
Finally, it’s essential to value local environments and reject the idea that they are just resources to be exploited. Natural disasters aren’t caused by climate change alone but by the combination of hazards and economic inequality. The global economy creates vulnerable regions, and solving climate change is about addressing these inequalities, not just developing new technologies. It’s time to demand an end to carbon colonialism and take real action to protect the planet.
🔭 This summary was human-edited with AI-assist.
