Chapter 14: The Risk of Global Climate Change Beyond Economic Growth: An Introduction to Sustainable Development By Tatyana P. Soubbotina

Overview of Chapter 14: The Risk of Global Climate Change What is global climate change? Carbon dioxide from fossil fuel combustion causes the atmosphere to warm Whose responsibility is it? Developed countries caused the problem, but solving it requires cooperation with developing countries Will North-South cooperation work?

What is global climate change? Combustion of fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas) emits CO2 CO2 in atmosphere traps infrared radiation, which can warm the atmosphere and change the climate Warmer temperatures, rising sea levels, & ocean acidification Effects on humans include: droughts, spreading tropical diseases, agriculture shifting northward, displaced by rising sea levels Effects on ecosystems include loss of biodiversity, coral reefs, and forest cover

Whose responsibility is global climate change? Industrialization was based on fossil fuels Developed countries are primarily responsible for current high atmospheric CO2 concentrations (Fig. 14.1 & 14.2) US is largest polluter; China is second largest Post-industrialization has slowed emissions increases in developed countries; Kyoto Protocol in 1990 required wealthy nations to reduce emissions by 6-8% below 1990 levels; US did not participate Developing countries argue that the problem was created by developed countries and that they need fossil fuel energy for economic growth If “fair” share of emissions is based on population, developed countries exceed their share and developing do not (Fig 14.3)

Will North-South cooperation work? Benefits and costs of preventing climate change differ across countries and regions Small island countries directly threatened by rising sea levels Benefits are higher and costs are lower in developing countries Can developed countries help developing countries reduce greenhouse gas emissions? Carbon Funds can finance emissions reductions in low-income countries (for example, efficiency improvements or advanced technologies)