Assignment task:
While China is indeed decreasing its dependence on coal (the no. 1 cause of particulate matter (PM) pollution) and expanding its renewable energy grid, critiques point out that such improvements have only taken place in major cities such as Beijing, Qingdao, and Guangzhou. Instead of cutting out coal, they argue that it is being relocated to the less-affluent parts of the country. Now, think about China's energy transition in terms of environmental justice, defined as "the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of race, color, national origin, or income, with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies" (EPA definition). Do you think China is making its transition to renewable energy in just/fair ways? If not, what would be the economic, social, or political implications of such an uneven rollout of its energy transition?