Can Arnold Terminate Emissions?

Some politicians view global heating as a major issue in upcoming elections – and are taking preemptive action. Europe, anticipating expiration of the Kyoto Treaty in 2012, created an emissions market: Companies buy and sell rights to emit greenhouse gases, and face fines for excess waste, in a market providing incentives to improve corporate practices. The system recognizes that the emissions pose serious harm to other major industries. California has long been a trendsetter in US environmental policy, and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger expresses concern that the state is the world’s 12th leading producer of greenhouse gases, harming its own agriculture industry and overall economy. Although the Bush administration resisted the Kyoto Treaty and has made little effort to reduce emissions, several private initiatives are underway in the US. California joining the EU market could lead to increased international cooperation. Linking California to the EU emissions market may take years to implement, but experts are optimistic about potential US participation. – YaleGlobal