Graph Proportional Relationships Discussion In your journal, you identified a rate of proportionality that was too low or too high. You explained how a person could increase or reduce a rate of proportionality. The table below shows the amount of carbon emissions in 2018 by typical people in different countries: Person Metric Tons of Carbon Emitted One person in Mauritania 1 metric ton of carbon One person in Indonesia 2 metric tons of carbon One person in Romania 4 metric tons of carbon One person in Norway 7 metric tons of carbon One person in the United States 15 metric tons of carbon In your post, explain the meaning of this table to your peers: Summarize the information that the table conveys. Explain why it might be important for countries to know how many metric tons of carbon their citizens emit every year. Then, read two of your peers' explanations of this table. Respond to two of your peers: Identify what you agree with in their explanations of the table. Identify what you disagree with in their explanations of the table.

Answer 1

Explanation of the Table

The table presents the carbon emissions for individuals in various countries in the year 2018, expressed in metric tons of carbon emitted per person. Here is a summary of the statistics:

• Mauritania: 1 metric ton
• Indonesia: 2 metric tons
• Romania: 4 metric tons
• Norway: 7 metric tons
• United States: 15 metric tons

This data shows a significant disparity in carbon emissions among individuals from different countries, indicating varying levels of consumption, lifestyle, and energy efficiency. For instance, a person in the U.S. emits 15 times more carbon than a person in Mauritania, highlighting how economic development, industrial activity, and energy sources play roles in carbon output.

Understanding these emissions is crucial for several reasons. First, countries need to be aware of their per capita emissions to formulate effective environmental policies and climate action plans. Knowing how emissions differ can help identify which sectors contribute most to a nation’s carbon footprint. Moreover, it allows governments to set reduction targets aligned with international agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, and encourages citizens to adopt sustainable practices to lower their individual or collective impact.

Addressing carbon emissions is a key component in combating climate change, and countries may look at this data to understand their global standing and responsibility in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Responses to Peers

Peer Response 1:

What I Agree With: I agree with your point that the vast difference in emissions between countries highlights economic disparities. It's essential to recognize that wealthier countries often have higher emissions due to more significant consumption and industrial activities.

What I Disagree With: However, I think your assertion that all high-emission countries should reduce their emissions without supporting initiatives for lower-emission countries is somewhat oversimplified. There should be a supportive framework that encourages poorer nations to develop sustainably while mitigating their carbon footprints.

Peer Response 2:

What I Agree With: I completely concur with your emphasis on the importance of establishing awareness about individual carbon footprints. Raising public awareness can lead to more sustainable lifestyle choices and collective action towards reducing emissions.

What I Disagree With: On the other hand, you suggest that simply lowering individual emissions will be sufficient to combat climate change. While that is certainly an important aspect, systemic changes in industry, energy production, and transportation are equally necessary to achieve significant reductions on a national and global scale. Individual actions alone may not suffice.