 |
 |
 |
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
In 2007–2008 Gallup Polls surveyed 127 countries. Over a third of the world's population was unaware of climate change. Developing countries were less aware than developed, and Africa was the least aware. Of those aware, Latin America leads in belief that temperature changes are a result of human activities. In contrast, Africa, parts of Asia and the Middle East, and a few countries from the Former Soviet Union believe that climate change has nothing to do with human activity. |
|
In the Western world, opinions over the concept and the appropriate responses are divided. Nick Pidgeon of Cardiff University finds that "results show the different stages of engagement about global warming on each side of the Atlantic"; where Europe debates the appropriate responses while the United States debates whether climate change is happening. . | |
|
|
|
The US is greatly concerned about the costs of limiting emissions of greenhouse gases. Using economic incentives, alternative and renewable energy have been promoted to reduce emissions while building infrastructure.
Business-centered organizations such as the Competitive Enterprise Institute, conservative commentators, and companies such as ExxonMobil have challenged IPCC climate change scenarios, funded scientists who disagree with the scientific consensus, and provided their own projections of the economic cost of stricter controls.
Environmental organizations and public figures have emphasized changes in the current climate and the risks they entail, while promoting adaptation to changes in infrastructural needs and emissions reductions. Many studies link population growth with emissions and the effect of climate change. |
|
Some climate change sceptics in the scientific or political communities dispute all or some of the scientific consensus, questioning whether climate change is actually occurring, whether human activity has contributed significantly to the change, and the magnitude of the threat posed by climate change. . | |
 |
|
Increased publicity of the scientific findings surrounding climate change has resulted in political and economic debate. Poor regions, particularly Africa, appear at greatest risk from the projected effects of climate change, even though their emissions have been small compared to the developed world. Developing counties are exempted from Kyoto Protocol restrictions - the US and Australian governments used that fact to justify them not ratifying the Protocol (however, Australia has since ratified the Protocol.). |
|
Another point of contention is to do with emerging economies such as India and China. The US says that if it must bear the cost of reducing emissions, then China should do the same because China's gross national CO2 emmissions now exceed those of the U.S. China has contended that it is less obligated to reduce emissions since its per capita responsibility and emissions per person are less than that of the U.S. | | |
|
 |
|
 | |
|
|
|
 |
|
 | |
|
|
Instantly make your world safer, healthier and cleaner
for you and your family. 101 ways you've never thought of to live green,
save money and avoid toxic chemicals. Become part of the real-world team of people who care. Make a difference today.
|
