Final answer:
The word 'implementing' could replace 'taking' to convey a negative viewpoint in the provided sentence, reflecting skepticism about the efficacy or sincerity of the actions. The 'command-and-control policy' is one where the government mandates the use of specific technologies. Efforts like reforestation and carbon capture are vital to stabilize carbon emissions and mitigate climate change.
Step-by-step explanation:
If we are to substitute the word “taking” with one that expresses a negative viewpoint in the sentence “Industrialized nations are taking strict measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” a suitable choice could be “implementing.” When used in a negative connotation, “implementing” can imply a forced or mechanical process, possibly suggesting lack of genuine commitment or innovation. In the broader context of environmental policy, terms such as “claiming,” or “pretending” could also be used to express skepticism about the sincerity or effectiveness of the measures. This perspective is reinforced by the fact that some companies may present an environmentally friendly facade while ignoring or minimizing their own negative impact on the environment, as in the case of the natural gas industry neglecting to address methane leaks.
Regarding the approaches to reducing CO₂ emissions from manufacturing industries, the first approach described, where the U.S. government makes it a policy to use only predetermined technologies, is an example of a command-and-control policy. This is because it involves direct regulation with specific standards and/or technology requirements. The second approach, involving government subsidies for cleaner technologies, represents an incentive-based strategy rather than a command-and-control one.
Lastly, efforts to achieve net-zero emissions underscore the importance of mitigation strategies, such as reforestation and carbon capture technologies, which have the potential to stabilize carbon emissions and substantially reduce the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.