How do national interests conflict with global environmental objectives?

National interests often conflict with global environmental objectives due to prioritisation of economic growth and sovereignty concerns.

National interests are primarily concerned with the welfare, security, and economic prosperity of a country and its citizens. These interests often lead to policies that prioritise economic growth, sometimes at the expense of the environment. For instance, a country might choose to exploit its natural resources, such as fossil fuels, to boost its economy, even if this contributes to global warming. This is evident in countries like the United States, China, and India, which are among the world's largest emitters of greenhouse gases due to their heavy reliance on coal and other fossil fuels for energy.

Moreover, the principle of sovereignty, which is central to the concept of national interests, can also conflict with global environmental objectives. Sovereignty refers to the right of a state to govern itself without external interference. This can lead to resistance against international environmental agreements, as they are seen as infringing upon a country's right to make its own decisions about its resources and environment. For example, the United States withdrew from the Paris Agreement in 2017, citing concerns about the agreement's impact on American sovereignty and the economy.

Furthermore, the issue of equity also plays a role in these conflicts. Developing countries often argue that they should be allowed to industrialise and grow their economies, just as developed countries did in the past, even if this leads to environmental degradation. They argue that developed countries, which have historically contributed the most to global environmental problems, should bear a greater burden in addressing these issues. This perspective can lead to conflicts in international negotiations on environmental issues, as seen in the disagreements over the principle of 'common but differentiated responsibilities' in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

In conclusion, national interests can conflict with global environmental objectives in several ways. The prioritisation of economic growth, concerns about sovereignty, and issues of equity can all lead to policies and actions that are detrimental to the environment. This highlights the need for a balance between national interests and global environmental objectives, and for international cooperation in addressing environmental issues.