Sino-American Environmental Relations: The Potential of Trans-Societal Linkages

This paper applies two dimensions, inter-governmental and trans-societal, to discuss US-China environmental relations. It argues that, while official bilateral environmental relations between the two over the past 15 years have not yet achieved substantial outcomes, trans-societal linkages between American and Chinese NGOs and activists have grown steadily. The scope and volume of their work may not be as visible as that of ODA projects or official initiatives, but their impact may be more sustainable and not easily interrupted by administrative or regime shifts in either country. On the other hand, this paper highlights that US-China relations in regard to climate change will explain the main trends that will dominate the overall environmental cooperation in the coming years. Whether or not the governments can build up mutual trust and effective mechanisms in security, trade and other policy fields will affect the possibility of a conducive atmosphere for cooperation in environmental protection.