15) From Figure 11.12 you can see that China and the U.S. are by far the largest

Question

15) From Figure 11.12 you can see that China and the U.S. are by far the largest producers of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the world. This is because these two nations consume the most energy and they rely on fossil fuels for about 90% of their energy needs.

a) Explain whether or not you think it is possible for there to be an overall reduction in worldwide CO2 emissions without the cooperation of both the U.S. and China.

b) Notice that China's per capita emission of CO2 is much lower than that of the U.S. With a population of over 1.4 billion people and a rapidly growing economy, China's future energy needs will be enormous. Explain how this will affect China's ability to scale up renewable sources of energy so as to reduce its CO2 emissions.

Explanation / Answer

According to the given information the data considers only the carbon dioxide emissions of human activities like burning of fossil fuels.

A. China has already overpassed the U.S and stood first in biggest producer of carbon dioxide. Without the cooperation of both U.S and CHINA there will not be overall reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. Because China alone stands at a position of emissions equal to both America and Canada. So you can just imagine how badly carbon dioxide emissions are effecting humans life. INDIA stands in third place after China and U.S so the cooperation of India can also play a key role in overall reduction of carbon dioxide emissions.

B. The main renewable sources of energy in China are hydroelectric and wind and solar power. China's main aim for renewable sources is just not for security instead it is also for reduction of carbon dioxide emissions.

In terms of generating electricity supply China came up maximum with water, wind and solar sources and minimum with thermal coal sources. But U.S is more and more depending upon fossil fuels like coal. China is now majorly depending upon constructions of solar and wind farms in order to ensure that the renewable sources for future are sufficient and reduce carbon dioxide emissions as well as air pollution Because China is the topmost air polluted compared to other places in world.

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