Book chapter
English

Trade, Climate Change, and Sustainable Development

Published inC. L. Lim, Joel Trachtman (Ed.), The Cambridge Companion to World Trade Law, p. 366-386
PublisherCambridge : Cambridge University Press
Publication date2026-05-21
Abstract

This chapter explores the relationship between international trade and sustainable development, with a particular focus on climate change. It traces the evolution of the multilateral trading system from its origins in the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade to the present day, highlighting the shift from a focus on trade liberalisation to a broader commitment to sustainable development. The chapter examines how the World Trade Organization has grappled with integrating environmental concerns into its framework, including the development of ‘greening’ jurisprudence, institutions, and rules. It proposes a reform agenda to further align the trading system with global sustainability goals, emphasising the need for alignment with climate change commitments, harmonised sustainability standards, reformed subsidy approaches, governance and institutional reforms, and a focus on equity and justice.

Citation (ISO format)
ESTY, Daniel C., CIMA, Elena. Trade, Climate Change, and Sustainable Development. In: The Cambridge Companion to World Trade Law. C. L. Lim, Joel Trachtman (Ed.). Cambridge : Cambridge University Press, 2026. p. 366–386. doi: 10.1017/9781009490146.018
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Book chapter (Published version)
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ISBN9781009490146
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Creation27/05/2026 14:50:38
First validation01/06/2026 12:36:44
Update01/06/2026 12:36:44
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