Understanding Second Generation Globalization and Environmental Management Challenges
In his analysis, Prof. Lynton Caldwell introduces the concept of "Second Generation" environmental problems—issues too large and complex for state-level solutions. These include global atmospheric changes like climate change, disease distribution shifts, and rising sea levels. Effective management requires international cooperation through treaties, but existing mechanisms often falter due to conflicting national interests. The challenge lies in reconciling state sovereignty with the need for collective action to address these pressing global issues.
Understanding Second Generation Globalization and Environmental Management Challenges
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Presentation Transcript
The “Second Generation” Globalization and Environmental Management
2nd Generation? • This is a term coined by Prof. Lynton Caldwell to describe the difference between past env problems, and future ones • First-Generation Problems were those that could be handled at the National level • Such as the EPA, Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, etc.
2nd Generation • “Second Generation Problems” are those that cannot be effectively handled at the level of the state—it is just not big enough • Global Problems, for instance, head this list. • There are many global problems, by no means all of them are environmental
2nd Generation Environmental Problems • #1 has to be Global Atmospheric Change
2nd Generation Environmental Problems • Briefly, the Environmental 2nd Generation Problems are: • Climate Change—with its many different effects • Changes in the distribution of diseases and the global spread of mutant diseases • Rising Sea Level
How do we handle these now? • By trying to find some way for 200 countries to work together • This pits national interests against global interests, just like we pit individual interests against collective interest. • The sum of all state interests is not necessarily global management We rely on Treaties for cooperative action.
How Effective are Existing Methods • Sometimes they work because all states perceive it to be in their interest that it should work. Example: Ozone Treaty
How Effective are Existing Methods • However, the Kyoto Protocol on Carbon Dioxide is a disaster because countries, including the US and Australia think it puts them at a specific disadvantage.
Right Now • We are trapped between the traditional model of the sovereign state, and the scale of emerging problems • Either we develop a much better sense of collective action, or we choose to give up part of our sovereignty.
