Environmental Protection Captures the World’s Attention

Flag of the United Nations

Nearly 200 countries met in Paris at the 2015 Climate Conference sponsored by the United Nations earlier this month.  Leaders reached an historic agreement to reduce emissions of atmospheric pollutants such as carbon and sulfur dioxides.  The primary sources of man-made emissions of such compounds come through the production of energy and in transportation.

World leaders approved a framework agreement to help reduce emissions starting in 2020.  Although this agreement is the first of its kind, some advocates don’t think it goes far enough in reducing carbon emissions, while others have concerns about the cost of using cleaner technology.  

Prior initiatives have only called on the industrialized nations of Europe and North America to reduce emissions, while large developing countries in Asia and South America were exempt.  Past attempts to institute a widespread “carbon tax” have also failed.  A carbon tax wasn’t part of this new accord reached in Paris though.  However, some places such as the Canadian Province of British Columbia do have a carbon tax that’s levied on the carbon content of fuels.

Most scientists believe the Paris agreement – calling for the reduction in emissions of carbon and other pollutants – is necessary to limit any further rise in global temperature to less than 2 degrees Celsius.  Living more sustainably is something that everyone should be doing anyway – irrespective of where they live.  Using alternative energy sources such as solar and wind power to produce electricity is essential.

Americans can reduce their carbon footprint by driving less and choosing to take public transportation, combine trips and walk or bike when possible.  Driving a fuel-efficient vehicle and recycling are also important.  There are things homeowners can do such as using appliances labeled “Energy Star” that are certified as being energy-efficient.  Many jurisdictions also offer tax credits as an incentive for using “Energy Star” certified appliances.  Plus, there is the tangible benefit of lower power bills for using appliances that require less electricity.  

There is a scientific consensus that man-made pollution has significantly increased since the Industrial Revolution and should be reduced.  In my view, curtailing pollution through more sustainable living is something everyone should be doing anyway.  The ground-breaking agreement reached in Paris made this a similar goal for communities around the world.