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

2. 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?

3. 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

4. Whose responsibility is global climate change?
Industrialization was based on fossil fuels
Developed countries are primarily responsible for current high atmospheric CO2 concentrations (Fig & 14.2)
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)

5. 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)