Final answer:
The impact of stopping the burning of fossil fuels would be a decrease in pollution, but it would also lead to economic hardship since fossil fuels are essential for people and businesses.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that best addresses the impact of stopping the burning of fossil fuels is option D) Pollution would go down, but economic hardship would ensue, since that energy is essential for people and businesses to live and work.
While it is true that burning fossil fuels releases pollutants and causes environmental damage, abruptly stopping their use would have economic consequences. Fossil fuels are essential for various industries and economies rely on them for energy production. Transitioning to cleaner energy sources should be done gradually to minimize the economic impact and ensure a smooth transition.