"Key Points on Climate Justice" is a working paper presented by the Global Humanitarian Forum. Although the entire world population influences the issues surrounding climate change, developed countries have more of a responsibility to take action because we are responsible for a significant amount of the consumption of our natural resources, and need to be held accountable for the pollution we cause. We can no longer take our lifestyles for granted knowing now more than ever before that how we have behaved and how we will behave will significantly impact the entire planet for generations to come. We have this great opportunity to step up in the global community and make changes in a fair and equitable way, with significant environmental consequences if we don’t.
Will it really matter if developed countries look only at their own interests and economics if we let the health of our planet deteriorate to the point of catastrophic climate change? Knowing what we know now, does it sit well that the effects of our actions will most definitely impact innocent people throughout less developed countries the most? It is critical to act now: greater delay leads to greater consequences.
“While every individual should enjoy the fulfillment of their inalienable rights, they also have a certain obligation to ensure the same is true for others…”
I encourage you to read the entire paper: Key Points on Climate Justice
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Thanks for posting this, Bill. While I agree that 1st World countries have a huge responsibility for the current state we are in, that doesn't absolve China, India, Brazil, etc. -- all who are quickly developing and hence becoming polluters on par with the 1st World countries -- from addressing climate change BEFORE it comes home to roost in their respective countries. Whether it is massive clear-cutting and burning of forests (Brazil), an odious reliance on dirty coal (China), or a burgeoning middle class clamoring to own all the toys of the West (India), each country has a responsibility to develop responsibly. They have watched how we have developed -- the good the bad and the ugly -- and we should help steer them on the "good" path.
ReplyDeleteJeff, thank you for your comments. I agree that countries like China, India and Brazil need to be accountable for the pollution that they cause. The paper I referenced talks about the 50 least developed nations who account for less than 2% of the greenhouse gases. As we know, the effects of climate change by the major emitters have already had an impact on the entire planet and these poorest countries are most susceptible to catastrophic events and less prepared to handle them. From a human rights perspective, it is important for countries to be held accountable, and to strive to share the benefits and burdens equitably.
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