The decarbonization of international trade

The transition to a low-carbon economy will require the transformation of many economic activities, including international trade. This chapter looks at the extent to which trade contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, but also assesses its importance for the diffusion of the technology and know-how needed to make production, transportation and consumption cleaner. Although carbon emissions associated with international trade have tended to decrease in recent years, bold steps are needed to further reduce trade-related emissions. Greater international cooperation is needed to support efforts to decarbonize supply chains and modes of international transport.