Greenwashing big hydropower - New Internationalist Magazine
Published February 23, 2026
Greenwashing Big Hydropower: An Examination of Environmental Claims
In recent years, the push for renewable energy has led to increased scrutiny of various energy sources, including hydropower. While hydropower is often touted as a clean and sustainable energy solution, its environmental impact and the practices surrounding its development have raised concerns about potential greenwashing. This term refers to the practice of presenting a false image of environmental responsibility to appeal to consumers and stakeholders.
Hydropower, which generates electricity through the movement of water, is one of the oldest forms of renewable energy. It accounts for approximately 16% of the world's electricity supply and is the largest source of renewable electricity globally. However, the environmental implications of large-scale hydropower projects can be significant, leading to habitat destruction, changes in water quality, and social displacement.
The Scale of Hydropower Development
According to the International Hydropower Association (IHA), there are over 58,000 large dams worldwide, with many of them used for hydropower generation. In 2020, global hydropower capacity reached around 1,330 gigawatts (GW), with China leading the way, accounting for nearly 30% of total capacity. Other major players include Brazil, Canada, and the United States.
While hydropower is often promoted as a low-carbon energy source, the reality is more complex. The construction of large dams can result in the flooding of vast areas, leading to the loss of forests and wetlands that play crucial roles in carbon sequestration. Additionally, the decay of submerged organic material can release significant amounts of methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
Environmental and Social Impacts
The environmental impacts of large hydropower projects extend beyond greenhouse gas emissions. The alteration of river ecosystems can disrupt fish migration patterns, leading to declines in fish populations and impacting local fishing communities. The creation of reservoirs can also change water temperatures and flow patterns, affecting the flora and fauna that depend on these ecosystems.
Socially, large hydropower projects often displace local communities, leading to loss of livelihoods and cultural heritage. The World Commission on Dams reported that between 40 million and 80 million people have been displaced by dam construction worldwide. This displacement is often accompanied by inadequate compensation and resettlement plans, further exacerbating the social impact of these projects.
Greenwashing Practices in Hydropower
Despite these challenges, many hydropower projects are marketed as environmentally friendly and sustainable. This greenwashing can take various forms, including overstating the benefits of hydropower while downplaying its environmental and social costs. For example, some projects may highlight their role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels without addressing the ecological damage they cause.
Furthermore, the certification of hydropower projects as “green” by various organizations can sometimes be misleading. Some certifications focus primarily on carbon emissions, neglecting other critical factors such as biodiversity, social equity, and the long-term sustainability of ecosystems. This narrow focus can create a false sense of security for investors and consumers who prioritize environmental responsibility.
Case Studies of Hydropower Projects
Several high-profile hydropower projects have come under scrutiny for their environmental and social impacts. The Belo Monte Dam in Brazil, for instance, has faced criticism for its effects on local Indigenous communities and the Amazon rainforest. Despite being promoted as a renewable energy solution, the dam has led to significant deforestation and has disrupted the lives of thousands of people.
Similarly, the construction of the dam on the Mekong River has raised alarms among environmentalists and local communities. The Mekong River is home to one of the world’s most diverse freshwater ecosystems, and the dam's construction threatens to disrupt fish migration and local agriculture, which many communities depend on for their livelihoods.
Regulatory and Policy Frameworks
As awareness of the issues surrounding hydropower grows, there is an increasing call for stronger regulatory frameworks to ensure that hydropower projects are developed sustainably. This includes comprehensive environmental impact assessments (EIAs) that consider not only carbon emissions but also the broader ecological and social implications of dam construction.
Some countries have begun to implement stricter regulations regarding hydropower development. For example, in Canada, the government has introduced policies that require a more thorough review of the potential impacts of large-scale hydropower projects on Indigenous lands and ecosystems. These policies aim to ensure that the rights of affected communities are respected and that projects are genuinely sustainable.
The Future of Hydropower
As the world transitions towards renewable energy sources, the role of hydropower will likely continue to be a topic of debate. While it can contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the environmental and social costs associated with large-scale hydropower projects cannot be ignored. A balanced approach that incorporates sustainable practices and considers the needs of local communities is essential for the future of hydropower.
Innovative solutions, such as small-scale hydropower projects or run-of-river systems, may offer a more sustainable alternative to large dams. These projects typically have a lower environmental impact and can provide renewable energy without the extensive ecological disruption associated with traditional hydropower development.
Conclusion
The conversation around hydropower and its environmental claims is complex and multifaceted. While it has the potential to play a significant role in the renewable energy landscape, the practice of greenwashing poses a significant challenge. As stakeholders in the energy sector work towards a more sustainable future, it is crucial to ensure that hydropower projects are genuinely environmentally responsible and socially equitable.
Moving forward, transparency and accountability will be key in addressing the challenges posed by hydropower development. By prioritizing comprehensive assessments and engaging with affected communities, the renewable energy sector can work towards a future that truly reflects its commitment to sustainability.
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