Self-sufficiency needs to be the foremost goal; especially for a country in Singapore’s position.

for humans who are meant to be rational, denying climate change and the consequences just seems like the most profound manifestation of ignorance and stupidity?!

Singapore is not an ‘ordinary country’ and so is no other country. According to the theme of common but differentiated responsibilities, Singapore should contribute in her own capacity and play a part to claim whatever responsibility -much or little- to take her place in the global future. If our manufacturing lives and dies by our consumption of fossil fuel, so does everybody elses, and if China, India and the rest of the world claims this as a shield against positive action, then we stand much to lose as a low-lying tropical island. While it is true that we contribute far far less on an absolute scale of emissions and contributed almost nothing to global historical emissions, it is surely unhelpful for us to demonstrate no commitment to pursuing a cleaner economic development path while hoping everyone else sign up to cuts.

Of course where there is supply, there is demand. But where there are goods, there are also prices, revenue and profit. In the act of consumption, manufacturers also benefit, so surely this must count in a modified adjusted way? Also, if this were the case, then should we be liable to emissions generated from the raw materials we use in producing goods, taking N into account the real price, negative externalities included?

Without an informed opinion about the inner politics of global negotiation, I have no opinion on whether Singapore should be in Annex I,II or remain status quo. But surely we can do more than we are doing now in setting ‘personal’ national targets and regulations on emission intensity.

There are many other feedback loops that are as yet not considered, such as climate-carbon feedback loops which will accelerate warming.

Not all people in China and India will want to reduce use of fossil fuels. Not all people want to pay tax generally, if they can help it. It may seem undemocratic but it is also illogical to imagine all to have the chance to be well-informed. While China has not signed up to cuts, they have a target of producing 15% of their energy via renewable sources by 2020. India has a National Action Plan on Climate Change, and looks like they are willing to pass legislation for targets.

No matter we have 5 million people or 500 million people in this country, it is always the individuals that adds up. The recent comments by our politicians are just the most shameful and irresponsible possible in terms of climate change. A disgrace to themselves, the party and the country we all love.