Ecological imperialism

Stakeholder capitalism
Green colonialism

Nature

The ‘green’ agenda based on a ‘stakeholder capitalism’ strategy (governments and others facilitating the needs of private capital) has co-opted genuine concerns about the environment to pursue new multi-billion-dollar global investment opportunities.

Incidence

A 2021 study published in *Nature Ecology & Evolution* found that over 60% of global biodiversity hotspots have experienced significant ecological changes due to the introduction of non-native species, often linked to historical and ongoing colonial activities. Regions such as Australia, New Zealand, and the Americas have been particularly affected, with invasive species outcompeting native flora and fauna, altering ecosystems, and causing long-term environmental and economic impacts.
A notable example occurred in New Zealand, where British colonists introduced rabbits in the 19th century for hunting. By the 1870s, rabbit populations exploded, devastating native vegetation and prompting further ecological disruption through the introduction of predators like stoats.

Claim

If you read 2020 report Nature for Sale, by Friends of the Earth, you might conclude that we are witnessing a type of green imperialism that is using genuine concerns about the
environment to pursue a familiar agenda of extractivism, colonisation and commodification – the same old mindset, greenwashed and rolled out for public consumption. For some, things seem set to remain the same – business as usual.

Counter-claim

Ecological imperialism is often overstated and distracts from pressing global issues. While environmental concerns are valid, the notion of ecological imperialism exaggerates the impact of colonial histories on current ecological crises. Many societies have adapted and thrived despite historical challenges. Focusing on this concept diverts attention from practical solutions to contemporary environmental problems, such as climate change and pollution. We should prioritize actionable strategies rather than getting bogged down in theoretical debates about the past.