Quote:
Originally Posted by StNorberter
True, but also such an incredible cop-out.
Should we base all our policies and laws in Canada on what the total global effect is?
Should we repeal our laws against murder and crime because they simply won't affect global numbers? Of course not. We (and any other country that has) implement a carbon tax because it's the right thing to do and it will lower emissions in our country.
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No, Canada should do what is in Canada's interests while investing as heavily as is possible in achieving greater efficiencies (in that respect we are way behind the other developed countries, and while that is partially due to our climate and pattern of population, it is also because Canada has in recent decades lagged behind other countries in green innovation), while working towards global emission reductions and population stabilization, esp. in sub-Saharan Africa.
Your second point is a false analogy.
Incidentally, if you really want to reduce your carbon emissions, do not keep a dog. One dog has a yearly carbon footprint of a SUV with an annual mileage of 20,000 km. A dog consumes about 30% of the meat based proteins as a typical person and meat production from beginning to end is one of the most carbon heavy (and water heavy) industries. Cutting the number of domestic pets in Canada by half would reduce CO2 emissions by the equivalent of nearly one million cars. Also, it might allow your neighbours to enjoy a little bit more peace and quiet.