Yue Yin 殷 樾

Representational Difference
Printed silk banners
2023
Amid the rising global political tension, traditional energy sources like coal have re-entered the public eye. While debates continue regarding the relationship between energy usage and carbon emissions, it is certain that carbon footprint is no longer just about human survival and climate change, but also about the tensions and political games between political institutions.
As early as 2010, Chinese scientist and politician Dr. Ding Zhongli had a famous dialogue with journalist and environmental activist Chai Jing. Chai Jing questioned whether Dr. Ding, as a scientist, had maintained neutrality in his speech and attitude during the 2009 United Nations Climate Change Conference. In response, Dr. Ding explained that as a member of a developing country, carbon emissions were related to every individual and to China. The fight for carbon emissions rights was actually a global competition for development space, and emission rights were development rights that should not be divided by national borders. Dr. Ding also famously asked on Chinese social media, "Are Chinese people not human?" Today, Dr. Ding is still studying the basic logic and technological requirements for carbon neutrality, while Chai Jing and her family moved to the United States several years ago.
Ultimately, in environmental issues, we are exploring how humans can gain more time and save ourselves. In this work, I hope to explore the relationship and care between you, me, and others, and whether this relationship changes in different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. When it comes to tackling climate change, carbon emissions, and other issues, whether humanity as a whole can save itself depends on culture and civilization. When dealing with various challenges, people should generate a more inclusive and resilient civilization or develop our existing civilization more effectively.