Edward A. Parson
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780195155495
- eISBN:
- 9780199833955
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195155491.003.0004
- Subject:
- Political Science, American Politics
The major lines of scientific debate, research progress, and controversy over stratospheric ozone depletion from the mid 1970s to the mid 1980s are examined. Begins with the initial qualitative ...
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The major lines of scientific debate, research progress, and controversy over stratospheric ozone depletion from the mid 1970s to the mid 1980s are examined. Begins with the initial qualitative confirmation of the main points of the chlorine‐ozone depletion claim in 1976, which coincided with the resolution of the US policy debate over aerosols. It proceeds through 1985, with the seeming contradiction between slowly growing confidence that the main processes operating in the stratosphere were coming to be understood, and two shocking new claims of observed ozone losses that sharply called this confidence into question. In addition to reviewing substantive debates in stratospheric science, the chapter examines the multiple attempts over this period to synthesize and communicate the state of scientific understanding in assessments to inform policy making, culminating in 1985 with the first assessment that significantly influenced international policy debates.Less
The major lines of scientific debate, research progress, and controversy over stratospheric ozone depletion from the mid 1970s to the mid 1980s are examined. Begins with the initial qualitative confirmation of the main points of the chlorine‐ozone depletion claim in 1976, which coincided with the resolution of the US policy debate over aerosols. It proceeds through 1985, with the seeming contradiction between slowly growing confidence that the main processes operating in the stratosphere were coming to be understood, and two shocking new claims of observed ozone losses that sharply called this confidence into question. In addition to reviewing substantive debates in stratospheric science, the chapter examines the multiple attempts over this period to synthesize and communicate the state of scientific understanding in assessments to inform policy making, culminating in 1985 with the first assessment that significantly influenced international policy debates.
Edward A. Parson
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780195155495
- eISBN:
- 9780199833955
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195155491.001.0001
- Subject:
- Political Science, American Politics
Offers the first comprehensive history of international efforts to protect the ozone layer by abandoning the use of chlorofluorohydrocarbons (CFCs), and underlines that this is the greatest success ...
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Offers the first comprehensive history of international efforts to protect the ozone layer by abandoning the use of chlorofluorohydrocarbons (CFCs), and underlines that this is the greatest success yet achieved in managing human impacts on the global environment. The arguments advanced to explain how this success was achieved are theoretically novel and of great significance for the management of other global problems, particularly global climate change. An account is provided of ozone‐depletion issues from the first attempts to develop international action in the 1970s to the mature functioning of the present international ozone protection regime. Examines the parallel developments of politics and negotiations, scientific understanding and controversy, technological progress, and industry strategy that shaped the issue's development and its effective management. Important new insights are offered into how the interactions among these domains influenced the formation and adaptation of the ozone protection regime. In addressing the initial formation of the regime, the book argues that authoritative scientific assessments were crucial in constraining policy debates, and shaping negotiated agreements. Assessments gave scientific claims an ability to change policy actors’ behaviour that the claims themselves, however well known and verified, lacked. Concerning subsequent adaptation of the regime, the book identifies a series of feedbacks between the periodic revision of chemical controls and the strategic responses of affected industries, which drove rapid application of new approaches to reduce ozone‐depicting chemicals. These feedbacks, promoted by the regime's novel technology assessment process, allowed worldwide use of the CFCs to decline further and faster than even the boldest predictions — by nearly 95%t within ten years.Less
Offers the first comprehensive history of international efforts to protect the ozone layer by abandoning the use of chlorofluorohydrocarbons (CFCs), and underlines that this is the greatest success yet achieved in managing human impacts on the global environment. The arguments advanced to explain how this success was achieved are theoretically novel and of great significance for the management of other global problems, particularly global climate change. An account is provided of ozone‐depletion issues from the first attempts to develop international action in the 1970s to the mature functioning of the present international ozone protection regime. Examines the parallel developments of politics and negotiations, scientific understanding and controversy, technological progress, and industry strategy that shaped the issue's development and its effective management. Important new insights are offered into how the interactions among these domains influenced the formation and adaptation of the ozone protection regime. In addressing the initial formation of the regime, the book argues that authoritative scientific assessments were crucial in constraining policy debates, and shaping negotiated agreements. Assessments gave scientific claims an ability to change policy actors’ behaviour that the claims themselves, however well known and verified, lacked. Concerning subsequent adaptation of the regime, the book identifies a series of feedbacks between the periodic revision of chemical controls and the strategic responses of affected industries, which drove rapid application of new approaches to reduce ozone‐depicting chemicals. These feedbacks, promoted by the regime's novel technology assessment process, allowed worldwide use of the CFCs to decline further and faster than even the boldest predictions — by nearly 95%t within ten years.
Edward A. Parson
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780195155495
- eISBN:
- 9780199833955
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195155491.003.0003
- Subject:
- Political Science, American Politics
The linked histories of science, policy, and strategy over the first decade of policy concern about the ozone layer (1970 to 1980) are detailed. First, the controversies of the early 1970s over ...
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The linked histories of science, policy, and strategy over the first decade of policy concern about the ozone layer (1970 to 1980) are detailed. First, the controversies of the early 1970s over potential ozone depiction by supersonic aircraft (through the effects of water vapour and nitrogen oxides from aircraft exhausts), and their significance for subsequent debates, are reviewed. Then the domestic controversy over chlorofluorohydrocarbons (CFCs) and ozone depletion in the USA, the parallel but more muted discussions in other countries, and the first unsuccessful attempts to develop international action on the issue are discussed. A brief account is also given of industry's initial research into CFC alternatives, and of the early ozone policy debates.Less
The linked histories of science, policy, and strategy over the first decade of policy concern about the ozone layer (1970 to 1980) are detailed. First, the controversies of the early 1970s over potential ozone depiction by supersonic aircraft (through the effects of water vapour and nitrogen oxides from aircraft exhausts), and their significance for subsequent debates, are reviewed. Then the domestic controversy over chlorofluorohydrocarbons (CFCs) and ozone depletion in the USA, the parallel but more muted discussions in other countries, and the first unsuccessful attempts to develop international action on the issue are discussed. A brief account is also given of industry's initial research into CFC alternatives, and of the early ozone policy debates.
Edward A. Parson
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780195155495
- eISBN:
- 9780199833955
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195155491.003.0008
- Subject:
- Political Science, American Politics
Reintegrates the discussions of science, technology, and policy to examine how the ozone protection regime has adapted since its formation. Discusses the linked processes of negotiation, assessment, ...
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Reintegrates the discussions of science, technology, and policy to examine how the ozone protection regime has adapted since its formation. Discusses the linked processes of negotiation, assessment, and technological innovation that allowed the Montreal Protocol of 1987 to adapt repeatedly to new scientific knowledge and new technological capabilities, by strengthening and extending its control measures four times (1989–1990, 1991–1992, 1992–1995, 1995–1999). Finally, a brief assessment is made of the status of the regime at the end of the 1990s, including a review of several significant implementation problems.Less
Reintegrates the discussions of science, technology, and policy to examine how the ozone protection regime has adapted since its formation. Discusses the linked processes of negotiation, assessment, and technological innovation that allowed the Montreal Protocol of 1987 to adapt repeatedly to new scientific knowledge and new technological capabilities, by strengthening and extending its control measures four times (1989–1990, 1991–1992, 1992–1995, 1995–1999). Finally, a brief assessment is made of the status of the regime at the end of the 1990s, including a review of several significant implementation problems.
Edward A. Parson
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780195155495
- eISBN:
- 9780199833955
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195155491.003.0006
- Subject:
- Political Science, American Politics
Examines major changes in scientific understanding that followed the adoption of the Montreal Protocol in 1987 and the completion of the period of initial formation of the ozone protection regime. ...
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Examines major changes in scientific understanding that followed the adoption of the Montreal Protocol in 1987 and the completion of the period of initial formation of the ozone protection regime. Returns to the two disturbing claims made in 1985 — extreme seasonal ozone loss in Antarctica, and large ozone loss worldwide — and traces their investigation over the following three years, their initial resolution in the year after the Protocol, and the consequences of their resolution in spreading calls to completely eliminate ozone‐depleting chemicals (chlorofluorohydrocarbons (CFCs)). The early development of the Protocol's expert assessment panels is also discussed; these are the centrepieces of the regime's structure to adapt to changing knowledge and capabilities.Less
Examines major changes in scientific understanding that followed the adoption of the Montreal Protocol in 1987 and the completion of the period of initial formation of the ozone protection regime. Returns to the two disturbing claims made in 1985 — extreme seasonal ozone loss in Antarctica, and large ozone loss worldwide — and traces their investigation over the following three years, their initial resolution in the year after the Protocol, and the consequences of their resolution in spreading calls to completely eliminate ozone‐depleting chemicals (chlorofluorohydrocarbons (CFCs)). The early development of the Protocol's expert assessment panels is also discussed; these are the centrepieces of the regime's structure to adapt to changing knowledge and capabilities.
Edward A. Parson
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780195155495
- eISBN:
- 9780199833955
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195155491.003.0009
- Subject:
- Political Science, American Politics
The history of the ozone issue falls into three broad periods: a decade of deadlock from 1975 to 1985, despite repeated attempts to develop international cooperation; a rapid burst of ozone ...
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The history of the ozone issue falls into three broad periods: a decade of deadlock from 1975 to 1985, despite repeated attempts to develop international cooperation; a rapid burst of ozone protection regime formation from 1986 to 1988, which produced the first agreement on concrete actions and most elements of the subsequent regime; and the period since 1989, which has been one of sustained progress in the elaboration and repeated adaptation of the regime's core control measures. These three distinct phases of the issue pose three explanatory challenges: explaining the dramatic transition from sustained deadlock by which the regime was established; explaining the persistent deadlock that preceded this transition; and explaining the sustained progress in building and adapting the regime that followed it. These are examined, stressing two types of processes: interactions between scientific assessments and the rhetorical use of scientific claims about environmental risk to support policy action or delay; and interactions between the setting and revision of regulatory targets, the assessment of technologies available to pursue the targets by reducing chemical usage, and the strategic responses of private industry. Some of the theoretical arguments advanced are then recast in practical terms to propose a set of lessons that the ozone issue may hold for other issues. The final section discusses limitations of the ozone regime.Less
The history of the ozone issue falls into three broad periods: a decade of deadlock from 1975 to 1985, despite repeated attempts to develop international cooperation; a rapid burst of ozone protection regime formation from 1986 to 1988, which produced the first agreement on concrete actions and most elements of the subsequent regime; and the period since 1989, which has been one of sustained progress in the elaboration and repeated adaptation of the regime's core control measures. These three distinct phases of the issue pose three explanatory challenges: explaining the dramatic transition from sustained deadlock by which the regime was established; explaining the persistent deadlock that preceded this transition; and explaining the sustained progress in building and adapting the regime that followed it. These are examined, stressing two types of processes: interactions between scientific assessments and the rhetorical use of scientific claims about environmental risk to support policy action or delay; and interactions between the setting and revision of regulatory targets, the assessment of technologies available to pursue the targets by reducing chemical usage, and the strategic responses of private industry. Some of the theoretical arguments advanced are then recast in practical terms to propose a set of lessons that the ozone issue may hold for other issues. The final section discusses limitations of the ozone regime.
Edward A. Parson
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780195155495
- eISBN:
- 9780199833955
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195155491.003.0005
- Subject:
- Political Science, American Politics
Domestic and international policy‐making on protection of the ozone layer are examined from 1980 to 1987. Tracks the 1982 resumption of international negotiations to protect the ozone layer after two ...
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Domestic and international policy‐making on protection of the ozone layer are examined from 1980 to 1987. Tracks the 1982 resumption of international negotiations to protect the ozone layer after two further unsuccessful attempts. Follows the progression of these negotiations, and their interactions with domestic policy and corporate strategy, over five years: three years of stagnation leading to the 1985 Vienna Convention, followed by two years of rapid progress culminating in the 1987 Montreal Protocol — the first international agreement on concrete measures to reduce human contribution to ozone depletion.Less
Domestic and international policy‐making on protection of the ozone layer are examined from 1980 to 1987. Tracks the 1982 resumption of international negotiations to protect the ozone layer after two further unsuccessful attempts. Follows the progression of these negotiations, and their interactions with domestic policy and corporate strategy, over five years: three years of stagnation leading to the 1985 Vienna Convention, followed by two years of rapid progress culminating in the 1987 Montreal Protocol — the first international agreement on concrete measures to reduce human contribution to ozone depletion.
Stephen Hopgood
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780199261437
- eISBN:
- 9780191599309
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199261431.003.0007
- Subject:
- Political Science, International Relations and Politics
Presents an analysis of multilateralism in American foreign environmental policy, focusing on the issues of ozone depletion, climate change, and biodiversity, and arguing that the evolution of US ...
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Presents an analysis of multilateralism in American foreign environmental policy, focusing on the issues of ozone depletion, climate change, and biodiversity, and arguing that the evolution of US perspectives on environmental multilateralism reflects a fundamental split in the US policy arena. On one side are activists who seek to promote multilateral regulation of environmental issues and to deepen the US role therein. On the other hand are the sceptics, hostile to state and international regulation of environmental issues and preferring market solutions. The author suggests that, although sceptics have scored repeated short‐term successes, the longer‐term momentum favours the activists, and the US is gradually becoming more deeply embedded in multilateral environmental regimes.Less
Presents an analysis of multilateralism in American foreign environmental policy, focusing on the issues of ozone depletion, climate change, and biodiversity, and arguing that the evolution of US perspectives on environmental multilateralism reflects a fundamental split in the US policy arena. On one side are activists who seek to promote multilateral regulation of environmental issues and to deepen the US role therein. On the other hand are the sceptics, hostile to state and international regulation of environmental issues and preferring market solutions. The author suggests that, although sceptics have scored repeated short‐term successes, the longer‐term momentum favours the activists, and the US is gradually becoming more deeply embedded in multilateral environmental regimes.
Edward A. Parson
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780195155495
- eISBN:
- 9780199833955
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195155491.003.0007
- Subject:
- Political Science, American Politics
Examines the major changes in technology that followed the adoption of the Montreal Protocol in 1987 and the completion of the period of initial formation of the ozone protection regime. Examines the ...
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Examines the major changes in technology that followed the adoption of the Montreal Protocol in 1987 and the completion of the period of initial formation of the ozone protection regime. Examines the reactions of major producers and users of chlorofluorohydrocarbons (CFCs) to the challenge posed by the negotiation and adoption of the Protocol. Discusses how major CFC producers in the chemical industry revived previously abandoned efforts to commercialize less ozone‐damaging chemical alternatives to CFCs. Also examines how CFC users, many of whom faced more serious risks from CFC restrictions than the producers, responded with intense efforts to reduce their dependence on all ozone‐depleting chemicals — efforts that reduced most CFC uses much faster than had seemed possible, and directed large shares of former CFC markets away from similar chemicals entirely.Less
Examines the major changes in technology that followed the adoption of the Montreal Protocol in 1987 and the completion of the period of initial formation of the ozone protection regime. Examines the reactions of major producers and users of chlorofluorohydrocarbons (CFCs) to the challenge posed by the negotiation and adoption of the Protocol. Discusses how major CFC producers in the chemical industry revived previously abandoned efforts to commercialize less ozone‐damaging chemical alternatives to CFCs. Also examines how CFC users, many of whom faced more serious risks from CFC restrictions than the producers, responded with intense efforts to reduce their dependence on all ozone‐depleting chemicals — efforts that reduced most CFC uses much faster than had seemed possible, and directed large shares of former CFC markets away from similar chemicals entirely.
Elizabeth R. DeSombre
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- August 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780262014977
- eISBN:
- 9780262295505
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- The MIT Press
- DOI:
- 10.7551/mitpress/9780262014977.003.0003
- Subject:
- Political Science, Environmental Politics
The ozone layer is one of the most important natural resources and it plays a major role in environmental protection. This chapter discusses ozone layer depletion and also addresses the importance of ...
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The ozone layer is one of the most important natural resources and it plays a major role in environmental protection. This chapter discusses ozone layer depletion and also addresses the importance of cooperation among countries on this issue. Natural resource scarcity and environmental degradation play a key role in promoting successful international cooperation. The characteristics, reasons, causes, and all other asymmetries of ozone resource depletion are mentioned in detail in the later sections of the chapter. The Montreal Protocol, which played an important role in the negotiations of international cooperation among states and countries globally, is described. The concluding part demonstrates some broader lessons that fit in with the overall themes of the book.Less
The ozone layer is one of the most important natural resources and it plays a major role in environmental protection. This chapter discusses ozone layer depletion and also addresses the importance of cooperation among countries on this issue. Natural resource scarcity and environmental degradation play a key role in promoting successful international cooperation. The characteristics, reasons, causes, and all other asymmetries of ozone resource depletion are mentioned in detail in the later sections of the chapter. The Montreal Protocol, which played an important role in the negotiations of international cooperation among states and countries globally, is described. The concluding part demonstrates some broader lessons that fit in with the overall themes of the book.
Annalee Yassi, Tord Kjellström, Theo de Kok, and Tee L. Guidotti
- Published in print:
- 2001
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195135589
- eISBN:
- 9780199864102
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195135589.003.0011
- Subject:
- Public Health and Epidemiology, Public Health, Epidemiology
This chapter focuses on transboundary and global health concerns. Topics discussed include the health consequences of war, ozone depletion and ultraviolet radiation, climate change and the greenhouse ...
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This chapter focuses on transboundary and global health concerns. Topics discussed include the health consequences of war, ozone depletion and ultraviolet radiation, climate change and the greenhouse effect, deforestation and desertification, biodiversity, acid precipitation, transboundary movements of hazardous waste, disasters, and global chemical contamination.Less
This chapter focuses on transboundary and global health concerns. Topics discussed include the health consequences of war, ozone depletion and ultraviolet radiation, climate change and the greenhouse effect, deforestation and desertification, biodiversity, acid precipitation, transboundary movements of hazardous waste, disasters, and global chemical contamination.
Peter Bohm
- Published in print:
- 2000
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199240708
- eISBN:
- 9780191718106
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199240708.003.0003
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Development, Growth, and Environmental
Given that a treaty among national governments is the best institution available to control global public bads (GPBs) such as ozone layer depletion or global climate change, this chapter presents an ...
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Given that a treaty among national governments is the best institution available to control global public bads (GPBs) such as ozone layer depletion or global climate change, this chapter presents an investigation on whether there are any incentives to uncooperative inefficient behaviour based on the 1987 Montreal Protocol (MP). The main conclusion is that although at the time it was drafted MP was the ‘best’ feasible treaty for controlling CFC emissions, some incentives appear to be missing. The loss of CFCs as a result of inefficiency within the treaty is likely to be greater than that caused by a large number of (developing) countries not signing the treaty. Differences in net costs of reducing CFC use among signatories were not taken into account. Thirdly, the treaty focuses on CFC use and not on CFC emissions. The treaty allows trade of CFC-based products among signatories. This discourages signatories from trying to reduce CFC use more than that required by the MP. The existence of non-signatories means that scope remains for import of CFC-based products from such countries. This may also hinder the effectiveness of MP.Less
Given that a treaty among national governments is the best institution available to control global public bads (GPBs) such as ozone layer depletion or global climate change, this chapter presents an investigation on whether there are any incentives to uncooperative inefficient behaviour based on the 1987 Montreal Protocol (MP). The main conclusion is that although at the time it was drafted MP was the ‘best’ feasible treaty for controlling CFC emissions, some incentives appear to be missing. The loss of CFCs as a result of inefficiency within the treaty is likely to be greater than that caused by a large number of (developing) countries not signing the treaty. Differences in net costs of reducing CFC use among signatories were not taken into account. Thirdly, the treaty focuses on CFC use and not on CFC emissions. The treaty allows trade of CFC-based products among signatories. This discourages signatories from trying to reduce CFC use more than that required by the MP. The existence of non-signatories means that scope remains for import of CFC-based products from such countries. This may also hinder the effectiveness of MP.
Tony McMichael and Alistair Woodward
- Published in print:
- 2001
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780192631985
- eISBN:
- 9780191723582
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780192631985.003.0005
- Subject:
- Public Health and Epidemiology, Public Health, Epidemiology
This chapter focuses on the impact of climate change and stratospheric ozone depletion on health. These changes are the consequence of overload and breakdown of global homeostatic mechanisms. Climate ...
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This chapter focuses on the impact of climate change and stratospheric ozone depletion on health. These changes are the consequence of overload and breakdown of global homeostatic mechanisms. Climate change and ozone depletion demonstrate that the planet is a closed system. Problems like these that are inherently global in nature require a response that is also worldwide. This means that international cooperation will be even more important than in the past, when diseases may have been distributed globally but the causes were essentially local.Less
This chapter focuses on the impact of climate change and stratospheric ozone depletion on health. These changes are the consequence of overload and breakdown of global homeostatic mechanisms. Climate change and ozone depletion demonstrate that the planet is a closed system. Problems like these that are inherently global in nature require a response that is also worldwide. This means that international cooperation will be even more important than in the past, when diseases may have been distributed globally but the causes were essentially local.
Adam Tompkins
- Published in print:
- 2016
- Published Online:
- August 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780801456688
- eISBN:
- 9781501704215
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Cornell University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7591/cornell/9780801456688.003.0008
- Subject:
- Sociology, Occupations, Professions, and Work
This chapter examines the local and international politics underlying the bitter struggle to end usage of methyl bromide. Animal-based studies showed that methyl bromide is a mutagen and reproductive ...
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This chapter examines the local and international politics underlying the bitter struggle to end usage of methyl bromide. Animal-based studies showed that methyl bromide is a mutagen and reproductive toxin. Upon breaking down in the atmosphere, methyl bromide, in combination with chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), also depletes the ozone layer. Following the discovery of a hole in the ozone layer in 1985 and subsequent signing of the Montreal Protocol in 1987, the United States committed to ending usage of ozone-depleting substances. An amendment to the Montreal Protocol, an international treaty to curb ozone depletion, in 1993 set a phase-out date for methyl bromide. This chapter discusses the collaborative efforts of farmworker groups and environmental organizations, including the Farmworker Association of Florida, Friends of the Earth, the Florida Consumer Action Network, and the Legal Environmental Assistance Foundation, to effect a methyl bromide ban in a battle with growers associations and industry groups.Less
This chapter examines the local and international politics underlying the bitter struggle to end usage of methyl bromide. Animal-based studies showed that methyl bromide is a mutagen and reproductive toxin. Upon breaking down in the atmosphere, methyl bromide, in combination with chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), also depletes the ozone layer. Following the discovery of a hole in the ozone layer in 1985 and subsequent signing of the Montreal Protocol in 1987, the United States committed to ending usage of ozone-depleting substances. An amendment to the Montreal Protocol, an international treaty to curb ozone depletion, in 1993 set a phase-out date for methyl bromide. This chapter discusses the collaborative efforts of farmworker groups and environmental organizations, including the Farmworker Association of Florida, Friends of the Earth, the Florida Consumer Action Network, and the Legal Environmental Assistance Foundation, to effect a methyl bromide ban in a battle with growers associations and industry groups.
Brian J. Gareau
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- October 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780300175264
- eISBN:
- 9780300188912
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Yale University Press
- DOI:
- 10.12987/yale/9780300175264.003.0008
- Subject:
- Political Science, International Relations and Politics
This chapter first summarizes the main arguments of the preceding chapters. It then explains the link between ozone-layer depletion and global climate change; and why the MeBr case needs to be ...
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This chapter first summarizes the main arguments of the preceding chapters. It then explains the link between ozone-layer depletion and global climate change; and why the MeBr case needs to be considered when the focus is on global climate change. It suggests that there is a way forward to make the successes of the Montreal Protocol compatible with climate politics, but it involves proactive, activist scientists and a greater range of participation from NGOs than allowed by the neoliberal turn.Less
This chapter first summarizes the main arguments of the preceding chapters. It then explains the link between ozone-layer depletion and global climate change; and why the MeBr case needs to be considered when the focus is on global climate change. It suggests that there is a way forward to make the successes of the Montreal Protocol compatible with climate politics, but it involves proactive, activist scientists and a greater range of participation from NGOs than allowed by the neoliberal turn.
Lawrence Badash
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- August 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780262012720
- eISBN:
- 9780262258531
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- The MIT Press
- DOI:
- 10.7551/mitpress/9780262012720.003.0001
- Subject:
- History, History of Science, Technology, and Medicine
In 1983, Carl Sagan, a planetary astronomer and a renowned science popularizer, coined the phrase “nuclear winter” to describe the effects on Earth’s climate of the explosion of nuclear weapons. This ...
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In 1983, Carl Sagan, a planetary astronomer and a renowned science popularizer, coined the phrase “nuclear winter” to describe the effects on Earth’s climate of the explosion of nuclear weapons. This book examines one of the effects of nuclear explosions: decreased temperature and illumination caused by reduced sunlight. As an introduction, this chapter looks at attempts to predict certain climatic consequences of nuclear war and considers the obscuration of sunlight as the main mechanism, with ozone depletion and the altered reflection of sunlight as additional paths. It also examines some of the effects of nuclear weapons, from electromagnetic pulse and ozone depletion to radioactive fallout, global incineration, and climate change. These effects appear to be disparate, but are nevertheless linked by the geographical extent of their consequences.Less
In 1983, Carl Sagan, a planetary astronomer and a renowned science popularizer, coined the phrase “nuclear winter” to describe the effects on Earth’s climate of the explosion of nuclear weapons. This book examines one of the effects of nuclear explosions: decreased temperature and illumination caused by reduced sunlight. As an introduction, this chapter looks at attempts to predict certain climatic consequences of nuclear war and considers the obscuration of sunlight as the main mechanism, with ozone depletion and the altered reflection of sunlight as additional paths. It also examines some of the effects of nuclear weapons, from electromagnetic pulse and ozone depletion to radioactive fallout, global incineration, and climate change. These effects appear to be disparate, but are nevertheless linked by the geographical extent of their consequences.
Clint Peinhardt and Todd Sandler
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- August 2015
- ISBN:
- 9780199398607
- eISBN:
- 9780199398645
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199398607.003.0012
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, International
This chapter focuses on two paired comparisons—one at the global level and one at the regional level—to underscore how seemingly similar pollution (public good) problems have vastly different ...
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This chapter focuses on two paired comparisons—one at the global level and one at the regional level—to underscore how seemingly similar pollution (public good) problems have vastly different collective action or cooperation prognoses. At the global level, failed action to stem climate change is contrasted with successful actions to curb ozone shield depletion. At the regional level, the paired regional public goods comparison concerns sulfur-based and nitrogen-based acid rain. Curbing the emissions of either of these two acid rain inducers constitutes the public good. Although regional treaties have made headway on both concerns, more rapid and better progress characterizes reducing sulfur emissions. By making the reader aware of the favorable and unfavorable drivers associated with supplying global and regional environmental public goods in important situations, it will become clear what fosters or inhibits environmental cooperation. Such knowledge bolsters informed policy making.Less
This chapter focuses on two paired comparisons—one at the global level and one at the regional level—to underscore how seemingly similar pollution (public good) problems have vastly different collective action or cooperation prognoses. At the global level, failed action to stem climate change is contrasted with successful actions to curb ozone shield depletion. At the regional level, the paired regional public goods comparison concerns sulfur-based and nitrogen-based acid rain. Curbing the emissions of either of these two acid rain inducers constitutes the public good. Although regional treaties have made headway on both concerns, more rapid and better progress characterizes reducing sulfur emissions. By making the reader aware of the favorable and unfavorable drivers associated with supplying global and regional environmental public goods in important situations, it will become clear what fosters or inhibits environmental cooperation. Such knowledge bolsters informed policy making.
Ramprasad Sengupta
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- May 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780198081654
- eISBN:
- 9780199082407
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198081654.003.0013
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Development, Growth, and Environmental
Human economy faces serious ecological constraints in the supply of not only energy resources, but also of a whole range non-energy mineral and non mineral material resources. The chapter discusses ...
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Human economy faces serious ecological constraints in the supply of not only energy resources, but also of a whole range non-energy mineral and non mineral material resources. The chapter discusses the issue of adequacy of deposits and supply of such materials and their recyclability. It also discusses the issue of wastes arising throughout the life cycle of a material resource and the classification of such wastes depending on their hardness so far as degradation is concerned and their respective nature of impacts on human health and the functioning of the ecosystems. It discusses specifically a few cases of pollution with important transnational externalities like pesticides pollution, acid rain and ozone depletion and the policy of their abatement by way of and global/bilateral bargain and cooperationLess
Human economy faces serious ecological constraints in the supply of not only energy resources, but also of a whole range non-energy mineral and non mineral material resources. The chapter discusses the issue of adequacy of deposits and supply of such materials and their recyclability. It also discusses the issue of wastes arising throughout the life cycle of a material resource and the classification of such wastes depending on their hardness so far as degradation is concerned and their respective nature of impacts on human health and the functioning of the ecosystems. It discusses specifically a few cases of pollution with important transnational externalities like pesticides pollution, acid rain and ozone depletion and the policy of their abatement by way of and global/bilateral bargain and cooperation
Lawrence Badash
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- August 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780262012720
- eISBN:
- 9780262258531
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- The MIT Press
- DOI:
- 10.7551/mitpress/9780262012720.003.0003
- Subject:
- History, History of Science, Technology, and Medicine
Nuclear war analysts often compared nuclear detonations to volcanic eruptions. The connection between volcanic eruptions and climatic changes, suggested long ago by Benjamin Franklin and others, ...
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Nuclear war analysts often compared nuclear detonations to volcanic eruptions. The connection between volcanic eruptions and climatic changes, suggested long ago by Benjamin Franklin and others, received serious interest from researchers only in the early twentieth century. Today, however, a direct comparison between volcanic eruptions and nuclear war is deemed inappropriate owing to the different absorption properties of sulfuric acid and silica dust than dark smoke. Furthermore, the distributions of particle sizes are different, and warfare would give rise to fine particles from a variety of sources rather than a single location. This chapter examines scientific disciplines with less obvious connections to nuclear war, including volcanic eruptions, ozone depletion, planetary studies, dinosaur extinction, and the asteroid impact hypothesis.Less
Nuclear war analysts often compared nuclear detonations to volcanic eruptions. The connection between volcanic eruptions and climatic changes, suggested long ago by Benjamin Franklin and others, received serious interest from researchers only in the early twentieth century. Today, however, a direct comparison between volcanic eruptions and nuclear war is deemed inappropriate owing to the different absorption properties of sulfuric acid and silica dust than dark smoke. Furthermore, the distributions of particle sizes are different, and warfare would give rise to fine particles from a variety of sources rather than a single location. This chapter examines scientific disciplines with less obvious connections to nuclear war, including volcanic eruptions, ozone depletion, planetary studies, dinosaur extinction, and the asteroid impact hypothesis.
Lawrence Badash
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- August 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780262012720
- eISBN:
- 9780262258531
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- The MIT Press
- DOI:
- 10.7551/mitpress/9780262012720.001.0001
- Subject:
- History, History of Science, Technology, and Medicine
The nuclear winter phenomenon burst upon the public’s consciousness in 1983. Added to the horror of a nuclear war’s immediate effects was the fear that the smoke from fires ignited by the explosions ...
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The nuclear winter phenomenon burst upon the public’s consciousness in 1983. Added to the horror of a nuclear war’s immediate effects was the fear that the smoke from fires ignited by the explosions would block the sun, creating an extended “winter” that might kill more people worldwide than the initial nuclear strikes. This book maps the rise and fall of the science of nuclear winter, examining research activity, the popularization of the concept, and the Reagan-era politics that combined to influence policy and public opinion. It traces the several sciences (including studies of volcanic eruptions, ozone depletion, and dinosaur extinction) that merged to allow computer modeling of nuclear winter and its development as a scientific specialty. It places this in the political context of the Reagan years, discussing congressional interest, media attention, the administration’s plans for a research program, and the Department of Defense’s claims that the arms buildup underway would prevent nuclear war, and thus nuclear winter. The book provides an illustration of the complex relationship between science and society. It examines the behavior of scientists in the public arena and in the scientific community, and raises questions about the problems faced by scientific Cassandras, the implications when scientists go public with worst-case scenarios, and the timing of government reaction to startling scientific findings.Less
The nuclear winter phenomenon burst upon the public’s consciousness in 1983. Added to the horror of a nuclear war’s immediate effects was the fear that the smoke from fires ignited by the explosions would block the sun, creating an extended “winter” that might kill more people worldwide than the initial nuclear strikes. This book maps the rise and fall of the science of nuclear winter, examining research activity, the popularization of the concept, and the Reagan-era politics that combined to influence policy and public opinion. It traces the several sciences (including studies of volcanic eruptions, ozone depletion, and dinosaur extinction) that merged to allow computer modeling of nuclear winter and its development as a scientific specialty. It places this in the political context of the Reagan years, discussing congressional interest, media attention, the administration’s plans for a research program, and the Department of Defense’s claims that the arms buildup underway would prevent nuclear war, and thus nuclear winter. The book provides an illustration of the complex relationship between science and society. It examines the behavior of scientists in the public arena and in the scientific community, and raises questions about the problems faced by scientific Cassandras, the implications when scientists go public with worst-case scenarios, and the timing of government reaction to startling scientific findings.
