In a speech yesterday, President Bush proposed halting the growth of carbon dioxide in the U.S–a brilliant, if not revolutionary, idea. The trouble is, he suggested delaying emission cuts until 2025, a deadline by which European nations and others seriously addressing climate change are aiming for deep cuts in current emissions levels.
The speech was undoubtedly prompted by the need to strengthen America’s negotiating position in the "heavy emitter" discussions currently taking place in Paris. However, the White House again proved that it is out of touch with both the scientific evidence on global warming and global sentiments to address the problem swiftly and effectively.
Researchers have clearly stated there is roughly a 10 year window (into which we have already entered) to stop the rise of global greenhouse emissions to avoid the most serious effects of global warming.
The U.S. must cut heat-trapping emissions by a minimum of 15% below current levels by 2020 and 80% or more by 2050, according to scientific consensus.
Under Bush’s "plan," U.S. emissions would be allowed to increase unhampered for another 17 years! Over that period, CO2 emissions are forecasted to grow 12% from 2006 levels (US DOE Energy Information Administration).
Not surprisingly the speech drew quick criticism from Democrats working on climate change legislation and from environmental groups.
"If it’s true that the president’s proposal would allow increases in the nation’s global warming pollution for the next 17 years, then it’s not a plan, it’s a joke," said Democratic Sen. Barbara Boxer, who chairs the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee.
Carl Pope, Sierra Club’s executive director, said "The president is throwing a Hail Mary to polluters in a last-ditch effort to stave off any meaningful action on global warming."
But one European delegate at the negotiations in Paris perhaps said it best: "Quite frankly, we are looking to the next president for answers, not to Bush."
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