Question

Policymakers banned the routine use of DDT as an insecticide in the United States, partly because of clear scientific evidence showing that DDT was a threat to wildlife. Today, scientific consensus holds that CO₂ released by human activities promotes global warming. Why haven't U.S. policymakers banned CO₂ pollution?

Answer 1

The U.S. has not banned CO₂ emissions like DDT due to the fundamental role of CO₂-producing fossil fuels in the economy and modern life, despite their contribution to global warming.

Step-by-step explanation:

Despite the scientific consensus that CO₂ emissions from human activities contribute to global warming, a complete ban on CO₂ pollution has not been enacted by U.S. policymakers for several reasons. Unlike DDT, which is a specific chemical that can be targeted for a ban, CO₂ is a byproduct of the burning of fossil fuels, which are integral to the economy and various aspects of modern life. Efforts have been made to reduce CO₂ emissions and there has been progress, as indicated by a 12% reduction in emissions from 2007 to 2012 according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). However, completely banning CO₂ would require a massive overhaul of the energy system and could have significant economic impacts. Policies tend to focus on reduction rather than a complete ban, through improvements in energy efficiency, alternative energy sources, and carbon capture technologies.