Evolving Experiences
Far-Right Ecologism in Local and Transnational Scales: Putting Down Roots and Navigating Contradictions
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Rafal Soborski
The long tradition of anti-universalist, localist thought on the far right is articulated nowadays in terms of warnings that globalization not only involves the exploitation of people, but also destroys environmental structures no longer adequately protected by the nation-state. Whereas some on the far-right remain committed to the reconstruction of the nation-state, others have fused deep ecologism with ethnoseparatism in favour of bioregional or other localist solutions, while assuming the eventuality of a catastrophic breakdown of the international system as a precondition for sustainable social renewal. The paper examines the distinctive ideologic of this form of utopian catastrophism alongside that of other versions of deep ecologism and considers its transnational adaptations following the unprecedented rise in human migration in recent decades. As research on social remittances indicates, ideas and values travel with people, and this includes far-right ideas carried by activists who declare uncompromising loyalty to their homelands. Given its attachment to place, and the fact that far-right ecologists leading transnational lives represent a contradiction in terms, the question is how this ideological current adapts when operating in transnational spaces. The paper evaluates the degree of continuity between the transnational far right today and its historical national predecessors. Using the case study of Polish far-right migrants in Britain, it shows that the ideological adaptation which helps far-right ecologists alleviate the tension of migration and put down roots in new places, is mediated through political myths and symbolic narratives revolving around long-established far-right themes of the soil and the dead.
Advancing Urban Climate Neutrality: Insights from the EU Mission for 100 Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities by 2030 View Digital Media
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Claudia Ribeiro Pereira Nunes
This research project investigates the European Union's Mission, "100 Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities by 2030," focusing on Climate City Contracts (CCCs) as innovative governance tools to achieve urban climate neutrality. By analyzing the design, implementation, and impact of CCCs, the project aims to assess their role in fostering cross-sectoral collaboration, securing funding, and driving sustainable urban transformations. It also explores integrating green and digital innovations across mobility, energy systems, and nature-based solutions. Employing case studies, stakeholder interviews, and comparative analyses, the research evaluates climate neutrality's social, economic, and environmental co-benefits, such as reduced pollution, enhanced livability, and improved health outcomes. The study is based on developing scalable policy recommendations and toolkits to enable non-participating cities to effectively design and implement climate-neutral strategies. Through scenario modeling and digital twin simulations, the project identifies replicable solutions to accelerate the transition to climate-neutral towns across Europe. Ultimately, the research contributes to the European Green Deal's objectives, advancing urban resilience and sustainability while fostering collaboration and innovation to address the global challenge of climate change.
