About the thesis
The thesis unpacks how policy design and ideological red lines shape the law to both strengthen and limit China’s ability to implement its new found enthusiasm for ‘green transitions’. The thesis examines how Ecological Civilization is both unique and significant for China and why it is ineffectual abroad.
The legal concept of Ecological Civilization (EC) has been accredited for major legal and judicial reforms in China. Currently, China is positioning itself as a leader in international environmental law and policy, yet it is difficult to see how this lofty ideal translates into the Chinese private firms and state owned firms that are investing in Zimbabwe and Kenya.
This thesis employs empirical case-studies in two African jurisdictions and explores how environmental standards are applied and which factors influence the application of higher or lower standards. The thesis identifies why problems of accountability abound and what future strategies are needed to improve the situation. The thesis focuses on conservation sites. Conservation of protected ecosystems is a principle of Ecological Civilization and conservation requires significant resources. The thesis argues that China will struggle to jointly promote a global ecological civilization because of the organizational principles and interests of the Communist Party.
Research questions
1) 'What is Ecological Civilization?',
2) 'What are the effects of Chinese investments on conservation in Zimbabwe and Kenya?'
3) 'To what extent can the Chinese Communist Party build a multilateral legal system that promotes a global transition to a sustainable future?'.
Practical information
Supervisors: Maria Lundberg and Dan Banik
Commentator: Wen Xiang (University of Copenhagen)