GCC countries strategic options in a global transition to zero-net emissions

Abstract Using a multi-level perspective approach combined with top-down macroeconomic models, we analyse the situation of the GCC countries in the perspective of a global transition to zero-net emissions before the end of the century. Based on these analyses we propose strategic and political options for these oil and gas exporting countries. We show that it would be unwise for GCC member states to adopt an obstruc-tionist strategy in international climate negotiations. On the contrary, these countries could be proactive in developing international emissions trading market and exploiting negative emissions obtained from CO2 direct reduction technologies, in particular Direct Air Capture with CO2 sequestration, and thus contribute to a global net-zero-emissions regime in which clean fossil fuels are still used.