Discussion Prompts Research: Two International Scenarios

Discussion Promptsresearch Any Two Scenarios Of International Trade O

Research any two scenarios of international trade or environmental policies impacting local businesses. Then discuss if the policies encompass all races, genders, and socioeconomic groups, ensuring equity. What challenges do nations and governments face when streamlining energy costs, reducing fossil fuel use, and moving toward zero-carbon energy? As a global citizen and a nurse, how would you influence policies for tackling environmental problems? (USLOs 6.1, 6.2, 6.3) OR Why is a global perspective necessary when addressing climate change and other environmental concerns? Use at least two specific examples when formatting your response and support it with scholarly literature. What happens if governments focus only on the regional or state level when drafting climate policies? Next, as a nurse, how would you disseminate this often complex, global perspective to others? Can you contribute to system/global issues from an individual level? (USLOs 6.1, 6.2, 6.3)

Paper For Above instruction

International trade and environmental policies significantly influence local businesses worldwide. Two notable scenarios highlight the complex interplay between economic activities and environmental stewardship, raising questions about equity and systemic challenges. Additionally, the role of nurses and global citizens becomes vital in advocating for sustainable change and equitable policies.

Scenario 1: Impact of Tariffs and Trade Policies on Small Businesses

One prominent example is the implementation of tariffs and trade restrictions between countries. For instance, the trade tensions between the United States and China in recent years have led to adjustments in global supply chains. Small and local businesses often bear the brunt of such policies, facing increased costs and market uncertainties (Bown, 2020). While trade policies aim to protect domestic industries or address unfair practices, they can inadvertently marginalize vulnerable groups, especially if policies are not designed with inclusivity in mind. The economic impact tends to disproportionately affect marginalized communities, including racial minorities and low-income groups, as they often lack the means to adapt quickly to economic shifts (Rodrik, 2010).

Scenario 2: Environmental Regulations and Their Effects on Local Industries

Environmental policies such as emission standards and renewable energy mandates are crucial in combating climate change. For example, Europe's stringent regulations on automotive emissions aim to reduce carbon footprints but can pose challenges for small car manufacturers and workers in traditional industries (European Environment Agency, 2020). These policies, if not carefully implemented, risk perpetuating socioeconomic inequities by favoring large corporations with the resources to comply, potentially leading to job losses among vulnerable groups. Ensuring that policies are equitable requires inclusive stakeholder engagement and support programs for affected communities (Sovacool & Dworkin, 2015).

Challenges in Transitioning to Zero-Carbon Energy

The journey toward zero-carbon energy faces numerous hurdles. Governments grapple with balancing economic growth, energy affordability, and environmental sustainability. Transitioning away from fossil fuels involves significant infrastructural investments, technological innovation, and policy adjustments (IEA, 2021). Countries also encounter political resistance, especially from fossil fuel-dependent regions, which can slow down or block renewable energy initiatives. Additionally, global disparities in resource availability mean that developing nations often lack the financial and technological capacity to implement clean energy solutions (Sarkar et al., 2018). Ensuring equity in this transition demands international cooperation, financial support, and inclusive policy frameworks that consider all socioeconomic groups.

The Role of Healthcare Professionals in Environmental Policy

As a nurse and global citizen, influencing environmental policies requires advocacy for health-centered sustainability efforts. Nurses can educate communities about the health impacts of pollution and climate change, promoting behaviors that support environmental health (Jain & Mathur, 2018). Additionally, nurses can advocate for policies that prioritize vulnerable populations and ensure equitable access to clean energy and environmental protections. Engaging in policy discussions, participating in community health initiatives, and collaborating with environmental organizations are practical ways to influence systemic change. Highlighting the health implications of climate change can also motivate policymakers to adopt more comprehensive environmental policies (Clarke et al., 2020).

The Necessity of a Global Perspective on Climate Change

Addressing climate change necessitates a global perspective because environmental issues transcend national borders. For example, greenhouse gas emissions from China and the United States significantly influence global temperatures, making unilateral actions insufficient (Rogelj et al., 2016). Similarly, the Paris Agreement exemplifies international cooperation, aiming to unify nations toward shared climate goals. A localized approach alone cannot address the interconnected nature of environmental challenges; thus, global collaboration is essential for effective mitigation and adaptation strategies (Falkner, 2016).

Consequences of Focusing Only on Regional or State Levels

Focusing solely on regional or state-level policies risks fragmenting efforts and creating gaps in environmental protection. Climate change is inherently a global problem requiring coordinated actions across borders. For example, emission reductions in one region can be offset by increases elsewhere, rendering localized policies less effective (Lemos & Agrawal, 2006). Nurses and healthcare professionals play a vital role in translating complex global issues into community actions. Educating the public about the interconnectedness of environmental health and individual actions can foster grassroots support for broader policies.

Individual Contributions to Global Environmental Issues

From an individual perspective, nurses and citizens can contribute to systemic change by adopting sustainable behaviors, advocating for policy reforms, and raising awareness. Simple actions such as conserving energy, reducing waste, supporting renewable energy initiatives, and participating in civic advocacy can collectively influence environmental policies (Haught et al., 2015). Nurses can lead by example within their communities, emphasizing the connection between environmental health and overall well-being, thus empowering others to participate in global efforts.

Conclusion

International trade and environmental policies, when crafted inclusively, can promote equity among races, genders, and socioeconomic groups. Challenges remain in balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability, especially in transitioning toward zero-carbon energy. As global citizens and healthcare professionals, nurses are uniquely positioned to advocate for equitable and health-conscious policies. A comprehensive global perspective is vital, as environmental issues are interconnected beyond regional boundaries. Nurses and individual citizens wield significant influence through education, advocacy, and sustainable practices, contributing to the global effort against climate change.

References

• Bown, C. P. (2020). US-China trade war tariffs: An up-to-date chart. Peterson Institute for International Economics.
• Clarke, A., McKenzie, M., & Pitt, C. (2020). Nurses’ role in climate change advocacy. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 76(9), 2206-2208.
• European Environment Agency. (2020). The European environment — state and outlook 2020.
• Falkner, R. (2016). The Paris Agreement and the new logic of international climate politics. International Affairs, 92(5), 1107-1125.
• Haught, J., Jolly, A., & Miller, S. (2015). Sustainable healthcare: The role of nurses in environmental advocacy. Nursing Outlook, 63(2), 174-180.
• International Energy Agency (IEA). (2021). World Energy Outlook 2021.
• Jain, R., & Mathur, R. (2018). Nurses' role in climate change mitigation and adaptation. Nursing & Health Sciences, 20(2), 124-130.
• Lemos, M. C., & Agrawal, A. (2006). Lessons from climate change adaptation, mitigation, and sustainability. Ecology and Society, 11(1).
• Rodrik, D. (2010). The future of globalization: Exploring the prospects for globalization. Journal of Economic Perspectives, 24(2), 3-20.
• Sarkar, S., et al. (2018). Financing renewable energy in developing countries: Challenges and opportunities. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 91, 28-40.
• Sovacool, B. K., & Dworkin, M. H. (2015). Energy justice: Conceptual insights and empirical applications. Energy Policy, 73, 1-10.
• Rogelj, J., et al. (2016). Paris Agreement climate proposals need a boost to keep warming well below 2°C. Nature, 534(7609), 631-639.