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.

Question

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 showcases the amount of carbon emissions produced by an average individual in different countries in 2018. The data reveals significant disparities in carbon emissions, ranging from 1 metric ton per person in Mauritania to 15 metric tons per person in the United States.

Summary of the Information:

• Mauritania: 1 metric ton of carbon emitted per person.
• Indonesia: 2 metric tons of carbon emitted per person.
• Romania: 4 metric tons of carbon emitted per person.
• Norway: 7 metric tons of carbon emitted per person.
• United States: 15 metric tons of carbon emitted per person.

This indicates that individuals in developed countries like the USA and Norway emit far more carbon than those in developing countries like Mauritania and Indonesia.

Importance of Tracking Carbon Emissions: Understanding the amount of carbon emissions per person is critical for several reasons:

1. Environmental Policy: Countries can use this data to formulate and adjust policies aimed at reducing overall carbon emissions. High emissions can indicate a need for stronger environmental regulations or renewable energy initiatives.

2. Global Agreements: Carbon emissions affect climate change, and knowing the emission rates helps countries fulfill their commitments under international agreements like the Paris Agreement. Countries with higher emissions may need to make more significant efforts to meet targets.

3. Public Awareness: Understanding individual carbon emissions can raise awareness among citizens about their environmental impact, encouraging lifestyle changes that lead to greater sustainability.

4. Economic Evaluation: Data on carbon emissions can help evaluate a country's economic activities, particularly industries that contribute significantly to emissions, and assist in transitioning to greener technologies.

Peer Responses

Response to Peer 1:

I agree with your point that tracking carbon emissions is essential for developing effective environmental policies. Understanding the disparity in emissions between countries can spotlight where the most significant impact can be made. Your emphasis on public awareness is also valid; by knowing their emissions, citizens might feel more accountable for their carbon footprint.

However, I disagree with your assumption that all countries, regardless of their current emissions, should reduce without considering their economic context. For instance, Indonesia, emitting 2 metric tons per person, may prioritize development over immediate reductions, while the US may need to take more drastic actions because of its higher levels.

Response to Peer 2:

I agree with your assertion that the data reveals stark differences in emissions, underscoring the need for global cooperation in tackling climate change. The connection you made between higher emissions and higher living standards is insightful; it highlights the challenge of balancing economic growth and environmental responsibility.

On the other hand, I disagree with your perspective that reducing emissions should solely focus on developed countries. Emerging economies also have a responsibility to engage in sustainable practices, especially as they grow. It's crucial that all countries work together towards long-term solutions.

Answer 2

shorter

Answer 3

Explanation of the Table

The table displays carbon emissions per person in different countries for 2018, highlighting significant disparities: Mauritania has 1 metric ton, Indonesia 2, Romania 4, Norway 7, and the United States 15 metric tons.

Importance of Tracking Carbon Emissions:

1. Environmental Policy: Data aids in creating effective policies to reduce emissions, especially in higher-emission countries.
2. Global Agreements: Helps nations meet commitments under climate accords like the Paris Agreement.
3. Public Awareness: Raises consciousness about individual carbon footprints, motivating sustainable changes.
4. Economic Evaluation: Assists in assessing economic activities linked to emissions and promotes greener technologies.

Peer Responses

Response to Peer 1: I agree that tracking emissions is vital for effective environmental policy and raising public awareness. However, I disagree with your argument that all countries should reduce emissions equally, as developing nations may prioritize growth while addressing sustainability.

Response to Peer 2: I appreciate your point about the need for global cooperation, especially between developed and developing nations. However, I disagree that only developed countries should focus on reductions; emerging economies also have a role in adopting sustainable practices as they grow.