Climate change and the generalized system of preferences

The possibility of using (and misusing) trade measures to address the problems of climate change has long been recognized. Yet, only recently, with the intensification of climate change policy making, has the interface between international trade law and the issue of climate change begun to garner attention. Most analysis has concentrated on how climate change policy may subvert international trade rules. This article focuses on the potential for incorporating trade liberalization into climate change policy. Specifically, it explores how the Generalized System of Preferences, a flexible mechanism for opening markets to developing countries, could be used to engage developing countries in efforts to combat climate change.