greenhouse madness
We do not and can not make a difference. I'm referring to what has always been referred to as "doing our bit for the environment". I feel rather duped by this myth.The federal government has decided to proceed with the emissions trading scheme next year, which aims to cap and reduce carbon emissions by a meagre 5% (of 2000 levels) by 2020, and 15% if other developed countries follow suit.
So what are the implications that create the myth?
The carbon pollution reduction scheme (CPRS) creates a market of tradeable permits. There would have to be a cap on the amount of emissions generated and hence permits in this market, with a view to reducing their quantity towards 2020.
Issue 1
The government is giving to heavy polluters (predominantly mining companies like BHP Billiton, BlueScope and Alcoa) 25-33% of permits in the total market (increasing to 45% in 2020). This is aimed to reduce their burden and any incentive for them to move offshore. Each company is given permits worth billions of dollars in total.
Issue 2
Where individuals begin to reduce their carbon output simply by turning off the lights and computers at night, it does not in any way reduce the total volume of allowable carbon emissions. Rather, the reduced individual consumption can be sold by electricity companies to industry. It means that individuals will share in a lesser proportion of the total pie. The pie (problem) does not go away, it just gets divided differently.
Issue 3
The government has been giving rebates to individuals installing solar panels. These solar panels cost anywhere between $20-30,000, and some people have taken out loans to take do their part for the environment. That was somewhat naive. These installed solar panels are connected to the grid, and any excess electricity is put back into the network as 'green power'. This power is classed as a carbon offset to the electricity company, and can then be on-sold to others at no extra cost whatsoever. No cost of production or credits are used, but more profit is generated. None of that profit goes back to those individuals as reward for becoming eco-friendly. What a rip!
Someone prove me wrong. Am I being too cynical for the planet's good?
benny | Friday, February 27, 2009 
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