My Opinion on Greenhouse Gases
The divide in the opinions on the effect that the greenhouse gases has increased in the recent times. Some people do believe that the increase in the greenhouse gases is indeed unrelated to the global warming. A few hold the opinion that any effects of warming are followed by cooling periods and such events are cyclical. However, I believe that we have ourselves to blame for the melting of the icebergs and the changing environmental scenario and greenhouse gases are indeed the chief contributors to the rising temperature of the Earth. Thus, I shall be voting to support the passing of any such act in the Congress that restricts the emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
This brings us to the question of the effect such resolution would have on businesses like car-manufacturers, coal burning companies, and makers of aerosol, solvents and refrigerators. It is true that such a resolution in Congress shall increase their costs in manufacturing, or in some cases, restrict their operations immensely. The utilitarian principle states that any actions of an individual or community should be aimed at achieving the maximum good of the people involved. The effect of global warming on the Earth and the consequent effects on our environment is far grave a matter than the profits of a handful businesses. It is the interest of mankind that we initiate measures to save our planet before it is too late. As far as the interests of a few businesses are concerned, this shall also compel them to look for alternate and greener methods which are less harmful to the environment. To the car companies, it would mean promotion of electric and alternate fuel vehicles, as they would invest more on such research. The greenhouse gases produced by our motor vehicles are the single largest contributors to global warming. The views of greenhouse gases being unrelated to global warming and the phenomenon itself being unrelated to environmental hazards is largely lobbied by the vehicle manufacturers who see a reduction in their profits with any such environmental regulation.
A point to be noted is that being environmentally ethical does not mean acting against the mankind. We live in this environment and its good health is in the best of our interests. Acting selfishly today to maintain our lifestyles of gas guzzling cars and air-conditioning in places not needed is going to be disastrous for our future generations. Therefore it is preposterous to put the community at risk for the economic interest of a few.
Therefore, arguments of a few notwithstanding, voting to restrict the emission of greenhouse gases into atmosphere is the best and in fact the only measure the humans can take to safeguard the environment and our future generations.
