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Over 4 billion people are in lockdown right now, because of the pandemic. That's over half the population of Earth. In a way, this is a big experiment to see if we, as individuals, can make a significant difference to the CO2 levels in Earth's atmosphere.
Turns out, not really. CO2 emissions fell by up to 20% over the past month, but the real problem is systemic. It's industries and corporations who need to make the changes which will make any real difference.
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-co2-isnt-falling-more-during-a-global-lockdown/
Don't let them gaslight you (pun partially intended). More CO2 emissions still come from burning coal than from any other source. And as long as industries insist on burning coal for energy and other purposes, that will be the biggest thing humanity needs to collectively change. Not whether or not you personally decide to ride a bike to work.
@InvaderXan yup. using a metal straw "feels" good but doesn't do shit for the environment on a macro scale.
corporations have convinced us that WE are the problem, but it's actually THEM.
@tootbrute In fairness, I do think we need less disposable single use plastic in the world. After all, a significant amount of crude oil ends up making that stuff. But again, it's a systemic problem which needs to be fixed at the top, not the bottom.
@InvaderXan @tootbrute Every barrel of oil transformed into plastic is a barrel of oil that isn't burned and therefore doesn't contribute to climate change. Using less plastic doesn't really reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
@InvaderXan Your conclusion seems simplistic to me.
Firstly, 20% is a significant drop, so in my opinion it proves both that individual behavior can make a difference and that it's not enough.
Secondly, industries don't burn fossil fuels for fun, their emissions are ultimately due to the individuals who buy their products.
Thirdly, a big reason why the world continues to burn so much coal is that its only reliable low-carbon alternative, nuclear power, is opposed by many individuals.