Diplomatic channels crucial for diffusion of sustainable infrastructure

Although the widespread adoption of sustainable infrastructure is crucial for climate change mitigation and adaptation, recent developments underscore how geopolitical tensions and technological development are increasingly intertwined. “Our research shows that promoting innovation through diplomatic channels can support national strategic interests and facilitate the commercialization of technologies necessary for the transition to a more sustainable future,” says Michał Bączyk, lead author of new research published in PLOS Sustainability and Transformation. 

End of history? A new Cold War? 

After the fall of the Berlin Wall and the subsequent wave of democratization and liberalization, many believed the Cold War between post-war capitalist and communist blocs had ended. Concerns about international security faded away, and another cold war became unthinkable to many. Yet, the “end of history” did not last long.

With the resurgence of Russia, Chinese technological developments in Asia and Africa, the trade war between China and the USA, and economic sanctions, international tensions have intensified. Despite similarities to the Cold War, current tensions revolve less around ideology and more around strategic technology, technological sovereignty, and market access. These developments prompted Michał Bączyk and co-authors Koen Frenken, Matthijs Punt and Iris Wanzenböck to explore the role of international relations in how key sustainability technology diffuses between countries. 

Our analysis highlights the significance of diplomatic relationships and geographical proximity in shaping technology diffusion.

Alliances matter in technology diffusion 

In their study, the authors analyzed the worldwide diffusion of six key infrastructural technologies between 1950 and 2012: solar, wind, nuclear and marine power, high-speed railways, and telecommunication satellites. Their findings highlight that technology diffusion between countries predominantly occurs between countries that are allies, for example member states of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Arab League, or Rio Treaty, and between countries that are neighbouring. How similar countries are politically, for example whether they are democratic or authoritarian appears to play no role in how sustainable technologies diffuse.  

“Our analysis highlights the significance of diplomatic relationships and geographical proximity in shaping technology diffusion”, explains Bączyk. “The ideological underpinning seems to be less relevant”. 

Leveraging diplomatic channels 

This research provides valuable insights for policy, showing diplomatic channels to be a crucial tool in the sustainability transition. Producer countries can engage in innovation diplomacy to promote sustainable domestic technologies, while countries that are not necessarily at the technological frontier may use diplomatic channels to obtain these technologies from abroad, aligning their partnerships with strategic interests and sustainability goals. "By leveraging diplomatic channels and fostering strategic alliances, nations can collectively work towards a more sustainable future” concludes Bączyk.