The atmosphere of Mars is more than 96% carbon dioxide, but the planet is cold because its atmosphere is extremely thin, very dry and further away from the Sun.
There is evidence for catastrophic climate change from protracted volcanic eruptions in the past, but since the 1950s the emissions we produce far exceed those from volcanic activity.
In New Zealand, where more than 80% of electricity is renewable, the carbon footprint of electric cars is 62% lower than that of fossil cars. But their lithium battery has other environmental impacts.
People are more likely to deny climate change if they’re inclined toward hierarchy, have lower levels of education or are more religious. But the strongest predictor of denial is a person’s politics.
Nick Golledge, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington
Individual actions to reduce emissions are important in two ways. First, they have an immediate impact, and secondly, adopting low-carbon life choices sends a clear message to political leaders.
Had the EU eliminated all subsidies between 2010 and 2017, its emissions would have been 9% lower over the period and governments across the EU would have saved US$441 billion.
Unlike a car, you can’t just stick a battery-powered engine in a plane and expect it to fly. Despite that, small planes might be the future of electric flight.
Young people have reason to protest today and call for action on climate change. But they risk anxiety if they feel they are not heard and nothing is done.
Barbara Allen, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington
New Zealand is introducing new procurement rules to better link government spending with climate change policy. The first target is to reduce emissions profile of the government’s vehicle fleet.