US Needs to Take Lead on Reducing Emissions

That China, India, Brazil, Mexico and South Africa nudged the richer G8 nations to "take the lead in achieving … greenhouse gas emissions reductions" is entirely appropriate, despite the fact that it flies in the face of American finger-pointing ("Bush lauds G-8 leaders for work on environment, trade issues," USATODAY.com, July 9). U.S. leaders have long launched assaults on China's and India's inaction, claiming that Asia's giants contribute more carbon than America.

Actually, the converse is true. America's per capita carbon emissions is a whopping 20 tons annually, roughly five times that of China's and 10 times that of India's. Moreover, three-fifths of the world's carbon stock — that is, total carbon emitted into the atmosphere — comes from high-income countries, with the USA leading by a nearly 30% share.

American leadership is needed now more than ever. Committing to a goal in 2050 is good; taking action today is better. For President Bush and his administration to effectively lead developed and developing countries in climate change prevention, the following principle must apply.

It was summed up by Indian President Pratibha Patil at a recent meeting on sustainability that I attended in Mumbai, India. Mitigation must be measured by "common but differentiated responsibility" and "respective capabilities."

On this, America is deeply responsible and entirely capable. As the world's leading carbon emitter, the U.S. must also be the leading carbon reducer.

If recalcitrant nations are to join the effort to undermine emissions growth, then the pot must stop calling the kettle black.

Michael Shank, Government relations adviser, Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution, George Mason University - Arlington, Va.