Juan Green has been involved in politics since he was a teenager. He studied Public Policy at Harvard University and played a leading role in efforts to broaden Hispanic engagement in United States politics during the 1990s.
Currently, his focus includes foreign trade policy within the White House discussions and decision-making processes.
The United States is widely recognized as a dominant global economic power. Yet there is a growing view that China will soon surpass it in several key areas. Is this shift a threat or a sign of structural change in the world economy?
It may be less about threat and more about a strategic polarization shaping the global economy. In sectors such as technology, globalization is evolving, and the traditional model of foreign trade has shifted since the Covid pandemic. Europe and the United States depended heavily on China for essential supplies like pharmaceuticals. Today, a new dual economic model appears to be taking shape, with two major power blocs.
Spain has felt the impact of the recent trade tensions on its relations with the European Union. Will the new administration alter this dynamic?
Four years under the previous U.S. presidency strained ties with Europe, not only due to trade barriers but also because of questions about the enduring strength of the NATO alliance. The Ukraine conflict underscored the need for unity. The incoming Democratic administration has emphasized a path toward closer cooperation and alignment with Europe.
When examining the war in Ukraine, rising prices and inflation are noticeable consequences. What could lie ahead for Spain if the conflict persists?
The situation is worrisome, with early public support for Ukraine giving way to fatigue over time. Strategic actors are calculating the risks, recognizing that a longer contest could embolden adversaries to test European resolve. A continued Russian advance might threaten the stability of Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, or Poland, potentially escalating danger for the European Union.
The topic of green consumption was highlighted during a course at the Manuel Peleteiro school. What personal motivations drive a strong commitment to sustainability?
Influence from interactions with Al Gore, the former U.S. vice president, helped frame this commitment. Gore has long worked to elevate climate change on leaders’ agendas. Around 2005, early collaboration began, laying groundwork for public awareness that later proved pivotal in mobilizing broader attention to a complex issue. The scientific community had issued warnings for decades, but clear messaging and accessible explanations often failed to resonate. Gore’s approach brought the topic into everyday conversation and policy discussions.
Many companies view sustainability as an opportunity rather than a cost. How does this perspective translate into real business advantage?
Enterprises that embrace sustainable practices frequently see increased profitability. More importantly, sustainability reflects shifting consumer values and evolving financing rules. Banks and regulators favor firms with responsible practices, and younger generations prefer partners who share their values. Embracing green strategies is now tied to growth opportunities rather than a mere compliance cost.
When it comes to youth and fast fashion, the conversation centers on changing consumption habits rather than simply buying cheaper items. How should society respond?
The issue is not consumption itself but irresponsible consumption. Fast fashion often incurs environmental costs. Leaders must be brave enough to demand accountability from brands that pollute, ensuring pricing remains fair for sustainable options. The goal is to offer durable, eco-friendly products at price points competitive with less sustainable choices through thoughtful regulation and prudent purchasing decisions.
How can the cost of a sustainable garment be aligned with fast fashion prices?
A garment should bear the true costs of its production. Pollution anywhere in the supply chain impacts communities elsewhere. This is a global problem requiring coordinated solutions, whether through regulation or incentives. Responsible practices deserve recognition and support through clear policy and market mechanisms.
Is there courage to penalize unsustainable business models?
The political will to fully embrace sustainability has been inconsistent. Sanctions and accountability measures can press polluting companies to compensate for environmental damage. Consumers can drive change by choosing better products and supporting leaders who push for responsible policies.
Given the importance of voting, how critical is public awareness in accelerating sustainability?
Knowledge alone is not enough. Public understanding of climate change is widespread, but willingness to sacrifice comfort remains uneven. Personal accountability matters—travel and carbon footprints, for instance, can be monitored and mitigated. When governments encourage private action through incentives or mandates, collective progress accelerates.
From a political standpoint, accelerating sustainability hinges on public engagement and clear, practical policy. Post-pandemic Europe demonstrated how public funds can drive sustainable transitions, with targeted investments encouraging cleaner fuels and responsible corporate behavior. Not all companies share the same footprint, and policy should reward lower-pollution operations while addressing higher-pollution practices for lasting change.
Cooperation between governments and corporations is common, yet it must serve citizens. The challenge is ensuring dialogues lead to actions that reflect public interests rather than special interests.