China Unscripted
#279 How China Duped America’s Climate Elite | Tom Duesterberg
Dec 2, 2024
Thomas Duesterberg, a Senior Fellow at The Hudson Institute and expert on trade and foreign policy, discusses how China is exploiting climate change narratives. He delves into China’s water management failures, juxtaposing its lofty carbon neutrality goals with ongoing coal plant expansions. The conversation highlights China's regional dominance and water manipulation affecting Southeast Asia. Duesterberg also critiques the U.S.-China economic ties, urging a reevaluation of trade policies to guard against China's strategic maneuvers.
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Quick takeaways
- China's environmental policies often disguise severe ecological degradation, challenging its commitment to sustainability amidst aggressive industrial growth.
- China's manipulation of regional water resources threatens neighboring countries, highlighting the geopolitical risks tied to its water management strategies.
Deep dives
China's Water Crisis
China faces a severe water crisis exacerbated by its industrialization and agricultural demands. Historical irrigation and water transfer projects, like the North-South Water Diversion Project, aim to supply the water needed for its large population and agricultural production. Unfortunately, these efforts have led to the depletion of groundwater and pollution, with 80-90% of groundwater deemed unsuitable for consumption. The reliance on heavily polluted water for agriculture further compromises food safety and quality, resulting in agricultural productivity rates significantly below those of Western countries.
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