The European Green Deal is a comprehensive strategy developed by the European Union (EU) to combat climate change and achieve sustainable development goals. The main objective is for the EU to become carbon-neutral by 2050 and to ensure that economic growth continues in a way that does not harm the environment. Developed countries are restructuring their industries to minimize environmental damage through advanced technologies, taking various measures and encouraging or even compelling other countries to follow suit. In this article, we will examine the challenges faced by developing countries and the reasons behind these difficulties in adapting to the Green Deal.
The industrial revolutions, which have transformed human history economically, socially, and technologically, can be classified into four distinct phases:
First Industrial Revolution (1760-1840)
The First Industrial Revolution, which began in late 18th century England, marks the transition from agrarian economies to industrial economies, characterized by a shift from handcrafting to machine production. The use of steam power led to a rapid increase in industrial production and improved efficiency. Steam power was employed in both production and transportation, resulting in significant economic growth in countries like England, Europe, and the United States.
Second Industrial Revolution (1870-1914)
Starting in the late 19th century, this period saw major technological advances in electricity, chemistry, petroleum, and steel. There was a significant leap in production technologies, and industrialization became more widespread globally. This second wave further accelerated economic growth. The development of railroads and shipping, along with increased urbanization and population density, led to higher labor productivity. Additionally, industrialization spread beyond Europe and the U.S., promoting global competition.
Third Industrial Revolution (1960-1990)
Known as the digital revolution, this period began in the mid-20th century and involved the integration of electronics, information technologies, and automation systems into production processes. The digitalization of production sped up global trade and made information more accessible. Factories were now managed by computers and equipped with automation systems. The global economy evolved into a knowledge-based structure, with significant growth in the service sector. The widespread use of digital technologies also increased competition in business and contributed to globalization.
Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0)
This revolution marks the point where digital technologies are more integrated with the physical world, with the introduction of smart automation systems and the dominance of digitalization in production and service processes. Germany first announced this process under the name “Industry 4.0” in 2011, and the term has since gained global usage. Many manual tasks have now become automatable through technological advancements.
The industrial revolutions not only transformed production processes but also profoundly impacted societal structures, economies, social life, and even the environment. While developed countries have benefited significantly from these revolutions, becoming major economic powers, developing countries have joined these processes later and lagged behind in industrialization.
Today, developed countries are well into the third or fourth industrial revolutions. Their ability to integrate advanced technologies into their industries allows them to create more environmentally friendly structures. However, for nations that have not yet achieved these revolutions or integrated technology into their industries, meeting sustainability obligations can be extremely challenging.
Economic and Financial Constraints
Achieving the goals set by the Green Deal requires substantial financial investments. Developing countries, however, often have limited economic resources and struggle to invest in sustainability projects. In areas like renewable energy, energy efficiency, and infrastructure transformation, where significant investments are needed to combat climate change, these nations face challenges such as budget deficits, external debt, and high inflation.
Additionally, affordable loans and grants to finance green projects are generally more accessible to developed countries. Developing nations, on the other hand, face difficulties in accessing these funds. This situation hinders the realization of projects related to renewable energy, water management, and sustainable agriculture.
Many developing countries must focus on short-term economic growth. In these countries, priorities like combating poverty, addressing unemployment, and developing infrastructure are seen as more urgent than long-term environmental policies. This causes the long-term planning required by the Green Deal to be sidelined.
Technological Deficiencies
The green transformation relies heavily on advanced and new technologies. Compared to countries that have gone through the third or fourth industrial revolutions, developing nations face significant challenges in accessing these technologies.
Most developing countries are highly dependent on fossil fuels and struggle to invest in renewable energy technologies. While developed nations can access technologies like solar, wind, and hydro energy more easily and cost-effectively, developing countries lag behind in accessing these technologies. Due to low investment in scientific research and innovation, many developing nations lack the necessary infrastructure for green economy initiatives such as digitization and Industry 4.0, which are essential for sustainable energy management, smart agriculture applications, and data-driven sustainability projects.
High Energy and Carbon Intensity
Many developing countries rely on fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) to sustain their economic growth. The widespread use of coal in energy production presents significant challenges, as transitioning away from fossil fuels can have economic and social costs. Switching to alternative energy sources takes time and requires significant investments.
In light of these challenges, developing countries are calling for a “just transition” under the Green Deal framework. They argue that developed nations, having historically contributed more to environmental degradation since the First Industrial Revolution, should bear a larger share of the climate change burden. Therefore, developed countries are urged to increase their financial and technological support for green transformation.
Conclusion
While the Green Deal and sustainable development goals offer great opportunities for developing countries, they also present serious challenges. To achieve sustainability targets, it is crucial for developed nations to provide financial, technological, and political support to developing countries.
