How the Topsy-Turvy Trade World Affects Climate Change Cooperation

Abstract

International trade rules can play a positive role in global efforts to prevent harmful climate change. In writing the new charter for the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 1994, governments noted their intent that trade relations allow "for the optimal use of the world's resources in accordance with the objective of sustainable development...." Although the WTO does not prevent sustainable development, the WTO has not actively promoted sustainable development goals.

Keywords: climate change, world trade, international law, international environmental law, U.S. Foreign relations, Paris Agreement, international organizations, international comparative law, treaty design, World Trade Organization