Publisher's Synopsis
The globe is warming and while no one knows quite what will happen as a result, it is clear that slowing the process is a necessary goal. Other studies have considered "warming fates", this one brings sophisticated computer modelling to bear on ways of minimizing the risks. All the contributing gases are taken into account, and the authors demonstrate the global need to produce a budget for cumulative releases between now and the year 2100. They also demonstrate the need to return to a rate of fossil carbon storage equal to that of the mid-1980s. These budgets look at issues of international equity and the ways of moving to a binding agreement. The price of failure to control greenhouse gas emissions may be uncertain, but it will be more than anyone can afford. Political will lies at the root of successful climate stabilization and major transfers to Third World countries will be needed if there is to be any chance of success. This book provides an agenda for advance.
