(b) Do more research before acting. A second group of scientists and economists point to the considerable uncertainty about climate change and its effects. They call for more research before making far-reaching economic and political decisions like phasing out fossil fuels and sharply reducing deforestation.
(c)Act now to reduce the risks from climate change. A third group of scientists and economists urge us to adopt a precautionary strategy. When dealing with risky and far-reaching environmental problems such as climate change, they believe the safest course is to take informed preventative action before overwhelming scientific evidence justifies acting. In 1997, over 2,500 scientists from a variety of disciplines signed a Scientists’ Statement on Global Climate Disruption and concluded, “We endorse those [IPCC] reports and observe that the further accumulation of greenhouse gases commits the earth irreversibly to further global climatic change and consequent ecological, economic, and social disruption. The risks associated with such changes justify preventative action through reduction in emissions of greenhouse gases.” Also in 1997, 2,700 economists led by 8 noble laureates declared, “ As economists, we believe that global climate change carries with it significant environmental, economic, social, and geopolitical risks that preventative steps are justified.”
(d)Act now as part of a no-regrets strategy. Scientists and economists supporting this approach say we should take the key actions needed to slow projected atmospheric warming even if it is not a serious threat because such actions lead to other important environmental, health and economic benefits. For example, reduction in the combustion of fossil fuels, especially coal, will lead to sharp reductions in air pollution that (I) harms and prematurely kills large numbers of people, (II) lowers food and timber productivity, and (III) decreases biodiversity.
Which of the four schools of thought about what should be done about possible global warming do you favor? why
No. 1 - POPULATION - Human populations surpass what the Earth can bear. We must stabilize and then reduce human population to at most a third current levels. Global limits must be placed on the number of children born, using incentives at first such as tax benefits for smaller families. Humanity can reduce population on their own accord or the Earth will do so for us.
No. 2 - GREENHOUSE GASES - Abrupt runaway climate change is happening now as energy costs the Earth dearly. Greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced by at least 70% as soon as possible. Maintaining an operable atmosphere requires phasing out coal and oil, introducing a substantial carbon tax, investing in renewable energy, and rigorously pursuing conservation and efficiency. No large-scale new energy systems such as nuclear or biofuel until shown to be environmentally benign in the long-term.
No. 3 - PROTECT ECOSYSTEMS - Large, connected and strictly protected ecosystems over much of the land and sea are a prerequisite for provision of air, water, biodiversity, soil and other services upon which life depends. Large protected marine areas must be established, ending industrial fishing. And ancient forest logging must end, strictly protecting remaining intact natural habitats.
No. 4 - CONSUMPTION - Excessive resource use to meet frivolous human wants must be restricted by promoting a consumption ethic that stresses voluntary simplicity and a sense of %26quot;enoughness%26quot;, and laws that minimize impacts. Simple reforms such as standardizing consumer packaging and making all waste recyclable will reduce necessary consumption%26#039;s impacts.
No. 5 - AGRICULTURE - A transition must be made to sustainable agricultural practices and eating habits with the emphasis upon organic, non-GMO, low meat diets that are locally produced. Eating habits impact virtually all ecosystems, resulting in natural forest clearing, toxic food chains, depleted water, soil loss and reduction of ecosystems%26#039; ability to hold carbon.
No. 6 - SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIES - Economic systems are a subset of ecological systems and as such all economic activities must maintain or expand natural capital. Growth that destroys natural capital is not sustainable, and growth as a measure of economic activity is an ecological malignancy. A steady state, sustainable economy must be business, industry and humanity%26#039;s goal.
No. 7 - GREEN TECHNOLOGY - Technology by itself cannot bring sustainability, but clean and green technologies are important and provide huge economic opportunities. There is tremendous potential for development of energy efficient, more sustainable and fully recyclable buildings, products and services (including hybrid cars and fluorescent lightbulbs). But the use and trade of toxic chemicals must end.
No. 8 - ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION - Too many ecosystems have already been lost and diminished for humanity to persist. Achieving sustainability and preparing for post collapse societies depends upon targeted restoration of important ecosystems. Priorities for ecological restoration include watersheds, establishing ecological core areas and urban environments.
No. 9 - POVERTY- Billions living in desperate poverty is unethical and damages the environment. All cannot live like Americans, but if the Earth%26#039;s wealth is shared we can all live well. The focus must be upon the overdeveloped world living more simply, sustainable development, equitable and just political and economic systems, and green technology transfer.
No. 10 - DEMILITARIZATION - Increasingly conflicts over resources fuel militarism and insurgency. Military budgets divert resources from crucial social and environmental investments, and must be slashed. Lasting security that is equitable, just and sustainable is best achieved through greater international law and investments that nurture global ecosystems. 60% 3 Votes 0% 0 Votes
The only school of thought that seems foolhardy is a. There is simply too much data available to want to take a chance with a %26quot;do nothing.%26quot; Approach. The risk here is considerable, because most research shows we are at a crossroads and decisive action must be taken promptly to avoid more serious consequences from global climate change. 20% 1 Vote