Book Review: Riofrancos Exposes the Contradictions of Green Capitalism

Critical exposé framing that positions green capitalism as inherently contradictory and exploitative; uses loaded terminology ('Green Dominance,' 'cudgel,' 'less-than-virtuous cycle') to delegitimize green energy transitions and corporate actors

Multinational corporations and wealthy nations maintain colonial-era extraction patterns under green capitalism rhetoric, concentrating control over critical minerals needed for energy transition while marginalizing Global South communities and indigenous populations from decision-making and benefit-sharing.

Mirrors 19th-20th century resource colonialism where European powers extracted minerals from colonies; now repackaged as environmental necessity, perpetuating similar power asymmetries and wealth extraction patterns.

Consumers face hidden costs of green transition: higher battery/EV prices reflecting unaccounted environmental externalities; supply chain vulnerabilities may increase renewable energy costs; displacement of indigenous communities reduces long-term resource sustainability and increases geopolitical instability affecting energy prices.

Governments must implement stricter ESG enforcement, supply chain transparency requirements, and community consent protocols for extraction projects. International trade agreements may need revision to prevent 'green colonialism.' Carbon accounting standards should include full lifecycle environmental and social costs. Potential for increased regulation of multinational mining operations and battery supply chains.