Structural Limitations of the Decarbonisation State

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32387/prokla.v55i221.2226

Keywords:

Climate Politics, Decarbonisation State, State Functions, State Theory, Transformation State

Abstract

To achieve net-zero climate targets, many OECD states have ramped up ambitions to decarbonize their economies. Nevertheless, there is a serious implementation gap, which is intensified by climate backsliding pressure. Based on the argument of an emerging »decarbonisation state«, we argue that a deeper understanding of the liberal capitalist state and its basic functions can help explain this gap. The transformation to a decarbonisation state, however, challenges basic functions of the underlying liberal capitalist state model. Our analysis implies analytical and normative avenues for future research.

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Published

2025-12-02

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Structural Limitations of the Decarbonisation State. (2025). PROKLA. Journal of Critical Social Science, 55(221), 801-820. https://doi.org/10.32387/prokla.v55i221.2226