Don't Blame China
From what I have been reading, projections are that China will become the world's top emitter of CO2, if is not already happened. It is interesting to realize that this is by proxy, this is, the off-shore manufacturing of American companies in China, where there is no real enforceable law on CO2 emissions.
In reality, the American consumer contributes to climate change not only on US soil, but in every country where there is an American factory. Off-shore operations are for maximal economy, ergo, companies save on costs created by environmental regulation, and pass those savings to American consumers that want to buy TVs, appliances etc.
Every time you see a commercial about how much of a deal you'll get at Best Buy, there are huge factories in China burning coal. One could not buy products made in China in protest, but then there would be nothing to buy!
While China is at the Vanguard of 'green' technologies for its newly built cities, most of the country still relies on coal energy.
In this image, taken by Ed Burtynsky, a coal field in China extends as far as the eye can see in every direction. Quite amazing.
In reality, the American consumer contributes to climate change not only on US soil, but in every country where there is an American factory. Off-shore operations are for maximal economy, ergo, companies save on costs created by environmental regulation, and pass those savings to American consumers that want to buy TVs, appliances etc.
Every time you see a commercial about how much of a deal you'll get at Best Buy, there are huge factories in China burning coal. One could not buy products made in China in protest, but then there would be nothing to buy!
While China is at the Vanguard of 'green' technologies for its newly built cities, most of the country still relies on coal energy.
In this image, taken by Ed Burtynsky, a coal field in China extends as far as the eye can see in every direction. Quite amazing.
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