Dr Clare Richardson-Barlow

I am an interdisciplinary social scientist whose research and teaching explore just climate and energy transitions in the Asia-Pacific. With over a decade of experience as a political economist focused on just climate-compatible development in the Asia-Pacific, I have a background in both academia and international policy research. Prior to joining the University of Leeds, I worked at globally recognised policy research organisations based Washington, D.C., including the National Bureau of Asian Research (NBR) and the Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS).

My tenure at NBR was particularly dynamic, involving extensive travel across Southeast Asia. A highlight of this period was leading a US academic-congressional group during Myanmar's hosting of ASEAN in 2014, an experience that provided deep insights into the region's complex political and economic dynamics. These experiences have significantly informed my approach to understanding the nuanced interplay between national policies and regional strategies in Southeast Asia.

Recently, I led a British Academy-funded project aimed at facilitating a just, fair, and affordable energy transition in the Asia-Pacific; this project spanned four case study countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. The outcomes of this project include a comprehensive policy report and contributions to a special edition of the Journal of the British Academy. Additionally, our findings were further disseminated through an article in the journal Energy for Sustainable Development.

My current research continues to focus on just transitions in Southeast Asia, particularly examining the labour impacts of these transitions. This work has contributed to a book detailing international comparisons of just transition strategies, where I authored a chapter on Malaysia. This publication and project details can be accessed here: Just Transition Book Chapter.

Looking ahead, I am particularly interested in deepening my investigation into the role of Chinese investment in the region and how it influences the processes of industrial decarbonisation and just transitions in Southeast Asia. My ongoing research aims to unpack the complex dynamics of these transitions, fostering a deeper understanding of how regional economies can align with sustainable development goals through equitable and effective strategies.