Over time, humans have been constantly emitting Carbon Dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere by the burning of fossil fuels (coal, natural gas, and oil) for the use of things such as energy and transportation. Since the Industrial Revolution began around 1750, human activities have contributed substantially to climate change by adding CO2 and other heat-trapping gases to the atmosphere. By measuring the CO2 emissions per country, it is easier to see which country (China, with United States close behind) emits the most CO2 into the atmosphere.
This also makes it easier for environmentalists, government officials, and policy makers to come to decisions about limitations in specific countries based on CO2 output. Policy options range from comprehensive market-based legislation to targeted regulations to reduce emissions and improve the efficiency of vehicles, power plants and large industrial sources. Underlying these analyses are economic models and detailed studies of technologies to reduce emissions. Taking actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions yields important economic benefits. These benefits are from the reduced risk to human health and welfare that results from lower emissions of greenhouse gases and less global warming and climate change. The use of GIS mapping and technology promotes the ability to examine issues in countries emitting higher levels of CO2.
Hudson, S. (December 01, 2008). Carbon emissions. Anz Journal of Surgery, 78, 12, 1137.
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This data is very interesting! We are learning about this very same thing in the Chemistry of the Environment class. Population increase leads to agriculture increase which then leads to more deforestation. The increase of CO2 from humans and animals are not being taken away by from vegetation like it should. The deforestation is removing plants that are supposed to help take in the CO2 from animals and humans.
ReplyDeleteAnother interesting point that could be addressed along side of population increases is the fact that as human numbers increase, global warming rates increase as well. This creates an environment that is more difficult to sustain crop culture, thus further increasing the issue of world hunger.
ReplyDeleteAlong this line of thinking, a data point that would be interesting to illustrate would be where the most polluting industries are headquartered. If policies are being made to address this, then the offenders need to be clear.
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