I believe the only expectations that industrialized nations should have for developing nations in the climate change debate is their commitment to cooperation in the creation of alternatives. They should not be required to make any sacrifices when it comes to their economic vitality.
Countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom should strive for equity as a goal, but what equity means should be carefully discussed and clarified. Sacrifices made on the part of industrialized nations are miniscule in comparison to that of economically developing nations. What is equitable will likely affect wealthy nations much more than economically developing ones.
Most third world countries will value economic development more than slowing down global warming. This is to be expected since the people of these countries are often not having their basic needs met. It is important to require these countries to participate in order for the industrialized nations to understand their needs. To exclude these nations would do little to solve the problem, as most nations who value global warming over economic development are already involved in finding a solution and conserving resources.
I like your view point. I most definitely agree that the third world countries have a higher dependence on economic development due to the basic everyday needs that they struggle to acquire.
ReplyDeleteThe view of global warming may still be important to them. Yet, the survival instinct of humans requires some citizens of third world countries to focus on their own survival needs such as food, shelter, etc. The survival of future generations is important to them. Yet, in order for their own generation to survive, they must find economic gains to aid them in survival of today.
I really like the way you framed the issue of expectation. Rich countries should only "expect" participation from developing countries in developing alternatives. I think this is not only the most reasonable approach, but also the most realistic. This forces all parties to be responsible for their role in the great green house gas saga. I would like to better understand your discussion of equity. Equitable based on whose perspective or what criteria?
ReplyDeleteI mostly view equity in this discussion as each country making equitable sacrifices in order to achieve environmental goals. If this was reached, rich countries would be required to expand much more financial resources than they currently do in order to sway third world countries from deforestation. This would require extensive analysis, but it is quite necessary when asking economically developing countries to disrupt their means of survival.
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