Kyoto Treaty
The Kyoto Treaty requires “developed” nations to reduce carbon emissions by over 5 percent below 1990 levels by 2012. The treaty has been signed by almost every nation on earth, with the major exception of the United States. Currently the European Union and 37 “developed” nations are legally required to follow through with the agreement, but most of the developing” nations—including major polluters like China and India are not bound by the protocol’s central tenant.
Commentary
Cry Wolf Quotes
[Automakers stated that the treaty would] increase gas prices 50 cents a gallon, boost the price of electricity 20 percent and raise the cost of making cars.
Kyoto is an economic weapon designed to undermine the global competitiveness and economic superiority of the United States.
Every credible economic study on the treaty paints a dark picture for the American people…the Kyoto treaty would cause energy prices to soar and the standard of living in our country to plummet…and result in the elimination of 2.4 million American jobs by the year 2010 and cost the average American family over $2,700 a year.
The economic impact would be devastating for the United States. We would see the loss of millions of jobs, entire industries would flee to other countries, our people would face higher fuel costs, higher taxes, leading to lower productivity and a lower standard of living.
Evidence
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Blind Spot: The Big Three's Attack on the Global Warming Treaty
eleased during the controversy over the Kyoto Treaty, this study is a serious policy paper, exploring the intersections between transit policy and global warming. It fairly establishes the Big Three have as long history of stubborn obstructionism. (They don't like anyone telling them what to do.)
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Behind the Numbers: Polluted Data
Almost everyone (including regulators) overestimates the costs of regulation.
