Mediating sovereignty for the environment in the British Overseas Territories

Abstract

Island-based states and territories harbour abundant wildlife, are acutely vulnerable to impacts of environmental degradation, and are often deemed non-self-governing due to associations with sovereign metropoles. Addressing environmental issues in these contexts can be dependent on governments having the appropriate authorities to engage in environmental action, but also the capacities needed to do so effectively. This paper develops an empirical analysis of environment and sovereignty in the context of the British Overseas Territories (UKOTs). Focusing on the mediation of sovereign powers for environmental action, the paper presents findings from interviews with representatives of government, civil society and scientific organisations to explore the authorities, needs and capacities for environmental action in the UKOTs and the perceived benefits and limitations that arise from the contextual condition of smallness in some territories. The paper synthesises suggestions for mediating relations of environmental sovereignty going forward in the context of Global Britain.