New Frontiers of International Economic Law: The Quest for Sustainable Development

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to explain new horizons and perspectives in international economic law in the context of sustainable development. This article explores the potential of the trading system in helping mitigate climate change and enhancing sustainable energy. The argument is that trade agreements have tremendous potential to help mitigate climate change, which is currently under-explored. The article first explains how trade agreements may be a legal instrument to mitigate climate change and enhance sustainable energy. It then provides an analysis of the challenges of mitigating climate change and enhancing sustainable energy. Next, it examines the synergistic links between the trading and climate regimes and offers forum options that best deal with them with the aim to help mitigate climate change and enhance sustainable energy. The article ends with what the future may hold on the links between international trade and renewable energy.

Keywords: international trade agreements, climate change mitigation, energy security, sustainable energy, international cooperation, decarbonization, sustainable development, citizens’ empowerment