China and the Climate: Environmental History and the Politics of Technology
China is central to the global climate transition as both the world's largest greenhouse gas emitter and the leading investor in green technology. Yet growing political tensions have made climate engagement with China increasingly complex for Germany, the European Union, and other actors to navigate. How have these dynamics developed over recent decades, and what do they mean for global climate politics today? In this course, students will explore these questions through the lenses of environmental history and the politics of technology. More concretely, we examine what drives China's environmental policies and how other nations and supranational organisations balance opportunities for cooperation with China in diplomacy, trade, research, and energy technology, against mounting economic and security challenges. The course further offers practical experience in policy research through a scenario-based exercise that connects classroom discussions to real-world challenges, helping students develop the ability to communicate analysis in ways that are clear, persuasive, and relevant for decision-makers.
Ziele & Kompetenzen
By the end of the course, students will be familiar with key arguments about China's environmental policies. They will be able to place these arguments in a broader context, and develop the tools to reflect critically on how China's rise as a climate actor shapes how it is perceived and engaged with globally.
Students will strengthen their ability to read and analyse complex arguments and practise thinking strategically about climate policy. They will also learn how to connect academic thinking to real-world policy questions and communicate their analysis clearly and persuasively.