November 6, Slides 1-2 Flashcards
How do humans differ from other species in transforming the environment?
While all species transform their environments, humans have greater flexibility in how we do so. This flexibility allows for both creative solutions and destructive practices.
Why is infinite economic growth problematic?
Infinite economic growth on a finite planet is unsustainable because resources are limited. Sir David Attenborough highlights this with the warning, “Anyone who thinks you can have infinite growth on a finite planet is either a madman or an economist.”
What characterizes Canada’s colonial economic structure?
Canada’s colonial economic structure established a resource-based economy, often summarized as “rip it and ship it.” This emphasizes the extraction and export of raw materials over value-added production.
What is the “centre-periphery” struggle in Canada?
The “centre-periphery” struggle refers to tensions between economic power concentrated in central regions (like Ontario and Quebec) and resource-rich peripheral regions (like Alberta and the Maritimes).
What did Herbert Stein say about unsustainable growth?
Herbert Stein observed, “If something cannot go on forever, it will stop.” This reflects the inevitable limitations of unsustainable economic practices.
What is the goal of the Oplana climate simulation?
The goal is for six governments in the fictional country of Oplana to agree on policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 70 megatonnes within a budget of 300 million MOUs.
What do the policy options in the Oplana simulation represent?
The ~20 policy options vary in greenhouse gas reduction potential and cost, requiring participants to balance environmental impact with budget constraints.
What role do NGOs play in the Oplana simulation?
NGOs participate in discussions to advocate for specific policies but do not sign the final agreement. They influence the process through their expertise and perspectives.
What is the role of journalists in the Oplana simulation?
Journalists report on the negotiations, adding public pressure and accountability to the decision-making process.
What challenge do governments face in the Oplana simulation?
Governments must balance the need for significant greenhouse gas reductions (70Mt) with a limited budget of 300 million MOUs, requiring strategic compromises.
How does economic growth conflict with environmental sustainability?
Economic systems prioritizing growth often exploit finite natural resources, leading to environmental degradation and unsustainable practices.
How does Canada’s colonial history affect its environmental policies?
Canada’s colonial legacy prioritizes resource extraction over sustainability, creating challenges in balancing economic and environmental goals.
Why is the assumption of infinite growth criticized?
Infinite growth ignores ecological limits and resource depletion, leading to systemic crises when natural systems can no longer support economic demands.
Why is budgeting critical in the Oplana simulation?
The limited budget forces governments to prioritize cost-effective policies that maximize greenhouse gas reductions without exceeding financial constraints.
What does the Oplana simulation teach about collective action?
The simulation highlights the complexity of achieving consensus on climate policies among diverse governments with varying priorities and constraints.
