Are Personal Carbon Credits the Answer?
Tim Yeo, the Chairman of UK's , is all in favor of establishing a system of personal carbon credits, Under the system, each person would be given a quota of carbon credits to meet their fuel and energy needs; anyone who exceeds the stipulated carbon limit will need to purchase more credits from those who haven’t. However, the proposition has been met with ambivalence. The committee sees it as having "real potential to engage the population in the fight against climate change and to achieve significant emissions reductions in a progressive way". But the environment minister, Hilary Benn has dismissed the plan as being “ahead of its time”. Given the cost factors, public opinion etc. the government has shelved the plan for now.
Ahead of its time? Some might actually see that as a good thing. What do you think?
In general, I think asking/telling consumers to buy carbon offsets is weak if it is positioned as a way to atone for their energy use and absolve themselves of fault and guilt.
However, this plan requires consumers to limit their energy expenditures or pay the price. What still concerns me with this plan is that consumers may figure additional offset payments into their budgets. Or, they may think they are doing their part simply by staying within their energy ration.
I think it's a good start, though, and a great way to ensure everyone is more conscientious about their energy use.
Posted by: C1Baby | May 30, 2008 at 02:40 PM