Addressing Climate Change in the Context of Nationalism: A Multilevel Action Framework

Abstract

Despite the warnings of, and concern over, the inevitability of climate change, there has been a lack of concerted, enforceable action. Some of the predicted phenomena are already unfolding, but the international reaction remains piecemeal. In this review paper, based on grounded theory methodology, the main factors delaying or stymying an appropriate response are conceptualized: skepticism of science; its politicization and perceived conflict with neoliberalism; well-funded opposition by the fossil fuel interests; disregarding long term damage to pursue immediate gains; dimensions of culture such as individualism and attitudes to nature. This paper also posits that these factors have been exacerbated by nationalism and populism, widening the rifts among and within countries. A multilevel approach to countering these challenges is proposed. National governments need to enact appropriate policies. However, institutions (corporations and activist NGOs), transnational climate change governance, public-private enterprises, and committed individuals are crucial to have an impact on mitigation and adaptation. While the handling of the coronavirus exemplifies the fragmentation and skepticism demonstrated in dealing with climate change, it could serve as a foretaste of the disastrous outcomes of climate inaction.