In 2006, the world achieved 8 billion tons of annual carbon emissions from fossil fuel burning, and industrial activity. Our 2006 emissions were not something to be particularly proud of, considering the accelerating rate of change. Between 1850 and 1960, growth was relatively consistent. Then a generation of emerging countries adopted the industrial technologies we now know cause global warming.
Consider the Facts Leading to Our 2006 Emissions
In 1927, the world managed one billion tons as we emerged from the great depression. We hit six billion in 1989 after 62 years, and eight 17 years later. We had reached a critical point where our 2006 emissions were entering dangerous territory.
However, outside of scientific journals the media were generally silent about melting ice, and rising oceans. Were we paying the penalty for accepting an older leadership with a shorter time line left? Certainly, there seems to have been an element of “I’ll be okay, and I’ll ride it out.” This phenomenon is continuing where industry still calls the shots.
That Said, There Was Some Response to 2006 Emissions
The nations that had accepted the Kyoto call however responded. Europe’s emissions fell by 9% from 2007 to 2012, as the full impact of global 2006 emissions sank in. However, individual scores varied. The United Kingdom shed 11% while Germany managed only 4%.
Russia and Japan increased their emissions, while China had already eclipsed the United States. It became increasingly evident that human greed and cultural tradition were oblivious to the global warming creeping up on them.
So where does that leave us, economy passengers on spaceship earth. Perhaps we should stop waiting in vain for our politicians to make career-limiting choices. We could achieve incremental improvements by adapting our lifestyles. And lobbying our suppliers to clean up their acts by withholding our custom until they do.
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Climate Change Part 24: George W Bush Energy Policy Kills Kyoto
Climate Change Part 7: 1927 Passed Us By
Preview Image: 2006 Colorado Holiday Blizzards
