Emma Aisbett is a Fellow at the School of Regulation and Global Governance (RegNet) and Associate Director, Research for ANU Grand Challenge – Zero-Carbon Energy for the Asia Pacific. Emma’s research is characterized by a set of recurring themes, which include economic globalization, environmental policy, developing countries, and political economy. She is best known for her work on international investment agreements where she has influenced both academic debate and policy. On this topic Emma has been an invited expert at both the OECD and the UN Commission on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). She is also an approved supplier of policy advice to developing countries through the UK Governments TAF2+ initiative.

The Zero-Carbon Energy for the Asia Pacific Grand Challenge aims to provide research and engagement supporting a rapid, just and sustainable transition to zero-carbon energy in the region. In particular, the project focuses on Australia’s potential to contribute by exporting zero-carbon energy and zero-carbon energy-rich products, as well as policies, frameworks, and technologies that can be use throughout the Asia-Pacific and beyond. More information on the Zero-Carbon Energy for the Asia Pacific Grand Challenge is available here.

Emma contributes to Zero-Carbon Energy for the Asia Pacific both as a researcher and as the Associate Director, Research. In the latter role Emma helps a diverse team of social and physical scientists, legal scholars and engineers work with each other and collaborate with external stakeholders to achieve trans-disciplinary research outcomes. Her own research on the project focuses on how international governance – especially international economic law – can support trade and investment toward a rapid, just and sustainable transition to zero-carbon energy.

Research interests:

• International governance for sustainable development
• Trade & Environment
• International investment governance
• Political economy of trade policy
• International political economy
• Energy transition
• Foreign direct investment in developing countries