Transnational Collaboration: Environmental issues often transcend national borders. During the 1980s, various environmental challenges, such as air pollution, acid rain, and nuclear accidents, highlighted the need for international cooperation. This led to discussions and collaborations between the Eastern and Western blocs on environmental matters, fostering communication and trust between the two sides.
Chernobyl Disaster (1986): The Chernobyl nuclear disaster in 1986, in the Soviet Union (present-day Ukraine), was a turning point that had both environmental and political ramifications. The disaster highlighted the risks associated with nuclear power and underscored the importance of international cooperation in responding to environmental crises. The Soviet Union's handling of the disaster also contributed to a loss of confidence in the regime and increased calls for transparency and accountability.