11 February 2008

Imported goods, exported pollution

Imagine the following scenario: UK business outsources to China or is outflanked by cheap imports. China ships stuff back to the UK. The UK then claims an 'emissions reduction' because the domestic emissions are 'off the books'. Repeat the same effect across the globe and what does this global free trade model amount to, in terms of its impact on climate change? Well, look here: "A new study shows that 20% of the earth's carbon is emitted from production activities in developing nations that are aimed at meeting the consumption needs of developed countries."

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